Main-Sequence Stellar Eruption Model for V838 Monocerotis
Abstract
We propose that the energy source of the outburst of V838 Mon and similar objects is an accretion event, i.e., gravitational energy rather than thermonuclear runaway. We show that the merger of two main-sequence stars, of masses M1~=1.5 Msolar and M2~=0.1-0.5 Msolar, can account for the luminosity, large radius, and low effective temperature of V838 Mon and similar objects. By varying the masses and types of the merging stars, and by considering slowly expanding, rather than hydrostatic, envelopes, this model can account for a large range in luminosities and radii of such outburst events.
- Publication:
-
The Astrophysical Journal
- Pub Date:
- January 2003
- DOI:
- arXiv:
- arXiv:astro-ph/0210463
- Bibcode:
- 2003ApJ...582L.105S
- Keywords:
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- Stars: Binaries: Close;
- Stars: Horizontal-Branch;
- Stars: Individual: Alphanumeric: M31 RV;
- Stars: Individual: Constellation Name: V838 Monocerotis;
- Stars: Individual: Constellation Name: V4332 Sagittarii;
- Stars: Mass Loss;
- Astrophysics
- E-Print:
- 9 pages