Mass loss from evolved stars. VI. Mass-loss mechanisms and luminosity evolution

Journal Article · Sun Nov 30 23:00:00 EST 1986 · Astrophys. J.; (United States)

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1086/164811· OSTI ID:6447654

Knapp, G R

Molecular line data for the circumstellar envelopes of AGB red giant stars is analyzed to identify the mass-loss mechanisms and any relationships between mass loss and succeeding planetary nebulae. Mass-loss rates and outflow velocities are derived and, when compared with the stellar luminosities and optical depths of the dust envelopes, indicate that radiation pressure drives outflowing dust to its terminal velocity. Departures from this model, observed in OH 2312.8 + 4.2 and planetary and protoplanetary nebulae, had luminosities which declined after planetary nebula formation commenced. 58 references.

• Research Organization: ATandT Bell Labs., Murray Hill, NJ
• OSTI ID: 6447654
• Journal Information: Astrophys. J.; (United States), Journal Name: Astrophys. J.; (United States) Vol. 311; ISSN ASJOA
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

640102* -- Astrophysics & Cosmology-- Stars & Quasi-Stellar
Radio & X-Ray Sources
71 CLASSICAL AND QUANTUM MECHANICS
GENERAL PHYSICS
CARBON COMPOUNDS
CARBON MONOXIDE
CARBON OXIDES
CHALCOGENIDES
EMISSION SPECTRA
GIANT STARS
LUMINOSITY
MASS TRANSFER
NEBULAE
OPTICAL PROPERTIES
OXIDES
OXYGEN COMPOUNDS
PHYSICAL PROPERTIES
PLANETARY NEBULAE
RED GIANT STARS
SPECTRA
STAR EVOLUTION
STARS