Search for brown-dwarf like secondaries in cataclysmic variables II
Abstract
We have examined VTL/ISAAC 1-2.5 spectroscopy of a sample of short orbital period cataclysmic variables which are candidates for harboring substellar companions. We provide descriptions of the infrared spectrum of EI Psc, V834 Cen, WX Cet, VW Hyi, TY PsA and BW Scl. Fitting of the IR spectral energy distribution (SED) was performed by comparing the observed spectrum with late-type templates. Absorption features of the secondary star were detected in EI Psc and V834 Cen, consistent with dwarf secondaries of spectral type K 5 1 and M 8 0.5, respectively. In addition, we report the first detection of the secondary star in VW Hyi. The SED in this case is well matched by an L 0 2 type secondary contributing 23 per cent to the overall flux at λ = 1.15 . This is a surprising result for a system with a relatively high mass transfer rate. We discuss the implication of our findings on the current scenarios for cataclysmic variable star evolution.
Turn this paper into a full lesson
ArcXiv compiles a staged curriculum from this paper: 8-12 lessons across beginner → advanced, synthesised section guides, visuals, flashcards, a quiz, exercises, and on-demand deep dives per section. Grounded in the abstract, never invented.