Multiplicity, activity and fast rotation in early-type stars

Abstract

There are obvious and direct ways in which the presence of binary companions may affect activity in OB stars through tidal interactions. In this review, however, I consider a more fundamental role for multiplicity and explore claims that the Be phenomenon may be intimately linked to binarity. I describe the binary channel for the formation of Be stars and the ongoing discussion about the relative contribution of this channel to the population of Be stars. I also present evidence suggesting that some environments are more favourable for the appearance of Be stars and explore whether this may be connected to initial conditions, such as the chemical composition or the distribution of rotational velocities on the ZAMS.