A Quadruple or Triple Origin For Tycho B and SN 1572

Abstract

Kerzendorf et al. (2012) recently reported the startling discovery of a metal-poor ([Fe/H]=-1 +/- 0.4) A-type star near the center of the Tycho supernova remnant. We propose two possible explanations. In the first, Tycho B is a blue straggler, formed from the merger of a close K- or G-type binary system, which was previously in a quadruple system with the binary that produced SN 1572. Both binaries were likely brought to tidal contact by Kozai-Lidov oscillations acting in concert with tidal friction. Analogous progenitor systems may include CzeV343, VW LMi, and KIC 4247791. In the second, Tycho B is the surviving tertiary component of a triple system, which was also likely affected by Kozai-Lidov oscillations. Rates are briefly discussed. Problems with each evolutionary scenario are presented. Finally, a chance alignment between Tycho B and the supernova remnant is not excluded.