ASTROPHYSICS: STUDIES FROM N.D. MELIKIAN AND COLLEAGUES REVEAL NEW FINDINGS ON ASTROPHYSICS

Science Letter
December 16, 2008

According to recent research published in the journal Astrophysics,
"Results from a spectral study of one of the brightest cataclysmic
variables, the star TT Ari, are presented. They are generally in good
agreement with previous observations, but there are some differences."

"The luminosity of the star, as well as the equivalent widths of
emission lines, reveal variations that are probably periodic in
character. Emission from the star in the CIV 5801 angstrom and
5812 angstrom lines is observed for the first time. The observed
variations in the symmetry of the broad absorption Balmer series
(beginning with H beta) may be a consequence of the appearance of
a P Cyg line profile. The H alpha line manifests a P Cyg profile
consisting of two components corresponding to 600 and 1900 km/s,"
wrote N.D. Melikian and colleagues (see also Astrophysics).

The researchers concluded: "The average of the ratio EWH alpha/EWH beta
indicates that the formation of these lines may be explained, at least
partially, in terms of a simple photoionization-recombination model."

Melikian and colleagues published their study in Astrophysics
(SPECTRAL OBSERVATIONS OF THE NOVALIKE STAR TT ARI. II. Astrophysics,
2008;51(3):372-386).

For additional information, contact N.D. Melikian, VA Ambartsumian
Byurakan Astrophysics Observ, Byurakan, Armenia.

The publisher’s contact information for the journal Astrophysics is:
Springer, Plenum Publishers, 233 Spring St., New York, NY 10013, USA.

From: Emil Lazarian | Ararat NewsPress