Astronomy and Astrophysics – Astrophysics
Scientific paper
2004-09-28
Astronomy and Astrophysics
Astrophysics
Error in table 1 corrected: orbital period GP Com is 2794 sec. Review to appear in "The astrophysics of cataclysmic variables
Scientific paper
I review our observational and theoretical knowledge of AM CVn stars, focusing on recent developments. These include newly discovered systems, the possibility that two recently discovered extremely short period objects are AM CVn stars and an update on X-ray, UV an optical studies. Theoretical advances include the study of the details of both the donor and accretor, and the physics of the helium accretion discs. I review our (limited) knowledge of the formation of AM CVn stars and the apparent success of the now more than 25 year old suggestion that in these objects the mass transfer is driven by gravitational wave radiation losses. The exciting prospect of directly detecting these gravitational waves and the possibilities this brings conclude this contribution.
No associations
LandOfFree
AM CVn stars 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 AM CVn stars, we encourage you to share that experience with our LandOfFree.com community. Your opinion is very important and AM CVn stars will most certainly appreciate the feedback.
Profile ID: LFWR-SCP-O-530386