The Formation of Low-Mass Transient X-Ray Binaries

Details The Formation of Low-Mass Transient X-Ray Binaries The Formation of Low-Mass Transient X-Ray Binaries

1996-12-16

arxiv.org/abs/astro-ph/9612154v1

Astronomy and Astrophysics

Astrophysics

Accepted for publication in ApJ, 19 pages, 4 figures

Scientific paper

10.1086/304083

We consider constraints on the formation of low-mass X-ray binaries containing neutron stars (NLMXBs) arising from the presence of soft X-ray transients among these systems. We show that in short-period systems driven by angular momentum loss these constraints require the secondary at the beginning of mass transfer to have a mass > 1.2 M_sun, and to be significantly nuclear-evolved. As a consequence a comparatively large fraction of such systems appear as soft X-ray transients even at short periods, as observed. Moreover the large initial secondary masses account for the rarity of NLMXBs at periods less than 3 hr. In contrast, NLMXB populations forming with large kick velocities would not have these properties, suggesting that the kick velocity is generally small compared to the pre-SN orbital velocity in a large fraction of systems. We derive constraints on progenitor system parameters and on the strength of magnetic braking.

Affiliated with

Also associated with

No associations

Rating

The Formation of Low-Mass Transient X-Ray Binaries 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 Formation of Low-Mass Transient X-Ray Binaries, we encourage you to share that experience with our LandOfFree.com community. Your opinion is very important and The Formation of Low-Mass Transient X-Ray Binaries will most certainly appreciate the feedback.

Rate now

Comments { 0 }

Profile ID: LFWR-SCP-O-605467