On the origin of continuum polarization in white dwarfs

Journal Article · Thu Jul 15 04:00:00 EDT 1976 · Astrophys. J.; (United States)

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1086/154519· OSTI ID:7337318

Ingham, W H; Brecher, K; Wasserman, I

We propose a model in which classical cyclotron emission from a hot corona can account for much of the continuum linear and circular polarization which has been observed at optical frequencies for several white dwarfs. Important features of our model are: (1) The degree of linear polarization (p) approx. = degree of circular polarization (q) for a variety of magnetic field configurations; (2) continuum polarization occurs in the optical only for surface magnetic field strengths B> or =10/sup 8/ gauss; (3) changes with wavelength in the handedness of circular polarization and in the position angle of the linear polarization occur naturally; and (4) the strong fields required imply severe shifting and smearing of sectral lines, for which there is evidence in some white dwarfs. Possible energy sources for and structures of such coronae are discussed. Observational tests of the model are suggested. (AIP)

• Research Organization: Department of Physics and Center for Space Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology
• OSTI ID: 7337318
• Journal Information: Astrophys. J.; (United States), Journal Name: Astrophys. J.; (United States) Vol. 207:2; 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
ATMOSPHERES
BREMSSTRAHLUNG
CYCLOTRON RADIATION
DWARF STARS
ELECTROMAGNETIC RADIATION
MAGNETIC FIELDS
MAGNETIC STARS
PLASMA
POLARIZATION
RADIATIONS
SPECTRA
STARS
STELLAR ATMOSPHERES
STRUCTURAL MODELS
WHITE DWARF STARS