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We consider constraints on the distance, inclination and component masses inthe X-ray binary GX 339--4 resulting from published works, and then constructdetailed evolutionary models for the donor. From both considerations, andassuming the black-hole nature for the compact object (i.e., its mass$>3\rm{M}_{\odot}$), the possible donor mass is$\approx$0.5--$1.4\rm{M}_{\odot}$, the inclination is$\approx{40}^\circ$--$60^\circ$ and the distance is $\approx$8--12\,kpc. Thecorresponding mass of the compact object is $\approx$4--$11\rm{M}_{\odot}$. Wethen confirm a previous estimate that the theoretical conservative masstransfer rate in GX 339--4 is $\lesssim{10^{-9}}\rm{M}_{\odot}$ yr$^{-1}$. Thisis $\gtrsim$10 times lower than the average mass accretion rate estimated fromthe long-term X-ray light curve. We show that this discrepancy can be solved intwo ways. One solution invokes irradiation of the donor by X-rays fromaccretion, which can temporarily enhance the mass transfer rate. We found thatabsorption of a $\sim$1 per cent of the irradiating luminosity results in thetransfer rate equal to the accretion rate. The time scale at which the transferrate will vary is estimated to be $\sim$10 yr, which appears consistent withthe observations. The other solution invokes non-conservative mass transfer.This requires that $\approx$70 per cent of the transferred mass escapes as astrong outflow and carries away the specific angular momentum comparable tothat of the donor.

The X-ray binary GX 339-4/V821 Ara: the distance, inclination, evolutionary status and mass transfer