Astronomy and Astrophysics – Astrophysics – Solar and Stellar Astrophysics
Scientific paper
2011-11-16
Astronomy and Astrophysics
Astrophysics
Solar and Stellar Astrophysics
Scientific paper
We report the discovery of rapid periodic signals in the light curves of two cataclysmic variables with prominent white-dwarf components in their spectra, SDSS J1457+51 and BW Sculptoris. These stars therefore appear to be new members of the GW Lib class of variable star, in which the fast periodic (and non-commensurate with the orbital period) signals are believed to arise from non-radial pulsations in the underlying white dwarf. The power spectra of both stars show complex signals with primary periods near 10 and 20 minutes. These signals change in frequency by a few percent on a timescale of weeks or less, and probably contain an internal fine structure unresolved by our observations. We also detect double-humped waves signifying the underlying orbital periods, near 78 minutes for both stars. In addition, BW Scl shows a transient but powerful signal with a period near 87 minutes, a quiescent superhump. The 11 % excess over the orbital period is difficult to understand, and may arise from an eccentric instability near the 2:1 resonance in the accretion disc.
Bolt G. G.
Christie Grant
Kemp Jonathan
Knigge Christian
Liu Alex
No associations
LandOfFree
Two new accreting, pulsating white dwarfs: SDSS J1457+51 and BW Sculptoris 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 Two new accreting, pulsating white dwarfs: SDSS J1457+51 and BW Sculptoris, we encourage you to share that experience with our LandOfFree.com community. Your opinion is very important and Two new accreting, pulsating white dwarfs: SDSS J1457+51 and BW Sculptoris will most certainly appreciate the feedback.
Profile ID: LFWR-SCP-O-348842