Astronomy and Astrophysics – Astrophysics
Scientific paper
2004-04-15
Astrophys.J. 606 (2004) L147-L150
Astronomy and Astrophysics
Astrophysics
ApJ Letters, v.606, 2004 May 10
Scientific paper
10.1086/421462
We analyze the spectrum of an unusually-low mass white dwarf, SDSSJ123410.37-022802.9 (0335-264-52000), found in our recent, white dwarf catalog from the SDSS DR1 data release. Two independent, model atmosphere fits result in an accurate determination of atmospheric and stellar parameters. The more hands-on analysis yields $T_{\rm eff}$ =17,470$\pm$750 K and $\log g$ = 6.38$\pm$0.05. We argue that the object cannot be a main sequence A star, a horizontal branch or subdwarf B star. Instead, it is interpreted as a very low mass white dwarf with a core composed of helium, with mass ($\sim$0.18-0.19$M_\odot$), similar to that published previously for the unusual companion to the millisecond pulsar J1012+5307. The star probably remains in a binary, perhaps even with an undiscovered or dead pulsar companion. However, the companion might be a more-ordinary star, provided Roche lobe mass transfer began shortly after the now-visible component left the main sequence. A second SDSS low mass white dwarf candidate is also analyzed, but the spectrum for this fainter object is of poorer quality. The sample appears to include additional, similar candidates, worthy of more accurate observation. Correct identification of any additional white dwarfs of extremely low mass requires careful observation and interpretation.
Bergeron Pierre
Eisenstein Daniel
Harris Hugh C.
Kleinman Scot James
Krzesi'nski Jurek
No associations
LandOfFree
A Helium White Dwarf of Extremely Low Mass 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 A Helium White Dwarf of Extremely Low Mass, we encourage you to share that experience with our LandOfFree.com community. Your opinion is very important and A Helium White Dwarf of Extremely Low Mass will most certainly appreciate the feedback.
Profile ID: LFWR-SCP-O-556301