Mass Transfer in WD-WD Binaries

Author:
Perez, Efrain, Astronomy, University of Virginia
Advisor:
Arras, Phil, University of Virginia
Abstract:

White dwarf- white dwarf binaries lose orbital angular momentum from gravitational wave luminosity emission and mass transfer. Once a star in a binary, for example, expands via its red giant branch it begins to overflow its Roche lobe. This overflow can cause the binary to experience unstable mass transfer leading to the merger of the two stars. Stable mass transfer can also occur in which the Roche lobe is filled but not enough to cause unstable transfer. For this paper we will examine mass transfer of newly created white dwarfs using MESA stellar evolution software.

Degree:
BS (Bachelor of Science)
Keywords:
Astronomy, White Dwarfs
Language:
English
Rights:
All rights reserved (no additional license for public reuse)
Issued Date:
2021/05/17