A new method to measure stellar mass-loss rates

Details A new method to measure stellar mass-loss rates A new method to measure stellar mass-loss rates

Jan 2010

adsabs.harvard.edu/cgi-bin/nph-data_query?bibcode=2010iaus..266..312k&link_type=abstract

Star clusters: basic galactic building blocks throughout time and space, Proceedings of the International Astronomical Union, IA

Astronomy and Astrophysics

Astrophysics

Stars: Mass Loss, Techniques: Photometric, Techniques: Spectroscopic, White Dwarfs

Scientific paper

The total stellar mass loss that a star suffers through post-main-sequence evolution is of vital importance to understand its subsequent evolution. The mass-loss rate along the first-ascent red-giant branch alone determines the upper red-giant-branch luminosity function and horizontal-branch morphology. The distribution of stars in these phases directly affects our interpretation of the integrated colors of distant galaxies, and is therefore of fundamental importance for galaxy formation and evolution studies in the higher-redshift Universe. Yet, these mass-loss rates, especially as a function of age and metallicity, are very poorly constrained in current models. I present new constraints on this field based on imaging and spectroscopic observations of the end products from this evolution, white dwarfs. By studying the mass distribution of these dead stars in nearby star clusters with a range of (known) ages and metallicities, we can directly constrain the mass-loss rates of stars across a range of environments. These observations directly impact several fields in astrophysics, including our knowledge of the enrichment of the interstellar medium, our ability to construct population synthesis models to interpret galaxy colors and the general interpretation of the sources and processes responsible for the observed ultraviolet upturn in elliptical galaxies.

Affiliated with

Also associated with

No associations

Rating

A new method to measure stellar mass-loss rates 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 new method to measure stellar mass-loss rates, we encourage you to share that experience with our LandOfFree.com community. Your opinion is very important and A new method to measure stellar mass-loss rates will most certainly appreciate the feedback.

Rate now

Comments { 0 }

Profile ID: LFWR-SCP-O-1447465