Astronomy and Astrophysics – Astrophysics
Scientific paper
Mar 2004
adsabs.harvard.edu/cgi-bin/nph-data_query?bibcode=2004a%26a...416...57k&link_type=abstract
Astronomy and Astrophysics, v.416, p.57-65 (2004)
Astronomy and Astrophysics
Astrophysics
8
Galaxies: Magellanic Clouds, Stars: Binaries: Symbiotic, Stars: Individual: Rx J0048.4-7332 (=Smc 3), Stars: Mass-Loss, X-Rays: Stars
Scientific paper
The ˜6 year supersoft X-ray lightcurve of the symbiotic nova SMC 3 (=RX J0048.4-7332) in the Small Magellanic Cloud is derived from archival ROSAT PSPC and HRI data. It shows one deep X-ray eclipse during which the count rate decreased by a factor of ≈gt80. In MACHO B-band data sinusoidal variation is found with a quasi-periodicity of ˜4 years. The minimum of the B-band flux occurs during the X-ray eclipse. In OGLE II I-band observations performed after the ROSAT observations we detect 110±2 day oscillations which we interpret as pulsations of the M0 giant star in the symbiotic system. The observed duration of the supersoft X-ray eclipse of ˜0.4-1.8 years is explained by the occultation of the white dwarf by the giant companion with an orbital period of ˜(4.0-4.8) years and a strong wind blown from its surface with a mass loss rate of ˜(2.6-8.2)× 10 -7 M&sun; yr-1, assuming that ˜(1-3.5)% of the ionized phase is neutral (e.g. due to dust) and assuming a terminal velocity of ˜30 km s-1. The ˜4 year quasi-periodicity found in the optical is explained as the binary orbital period of the system. It is less likely that it reflects the activity (or mass-loss) time scale of the red giant star. A ˜(700-800) day quasi-periodicity found in the OGLE II and MACHO data is explained as the first harmonic of a binary orbital cycle. SMC 3 therefore may be classified as a small-amplitude red variable star (SARV). The hot star most likely is in a state of steady nuclear burning with an accretion rate somewhat below the upper critical value of ˜10-7 M&sun; yr-1.
Based on archival data from the ROSAT, OGLE-II and MACHO project.
No associations
LandOfFree
The hot and cool component of the symbiotic nova SMC 3. A supersoft X-ray variable and a small-amplitude red variable does not yet have a rating. At this time, there are no reviews or comments for this scientific paper.
If you have personal experience with The hot and cool component of the symbiotic nova SMC 3. A supersoft X-ray variable and a small-amplitude red variable, we encourage you to share that experience with our LandOfFree.com community. Your opinion is very important and The hot and cool component of the symbiotic nova SMC 3. A supersoft X-ray variable and a small-amplitude red variable will most certainly appreciate the feedback.
Profile ID: LFWR-SCP-O-1619976