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Stokes imaging and Doppler mapping of the magnetic cataclysmic variable V834 Cen
Author(s) -
Potter S.,
RomeroColmenero E.,
Buckley D. A. H.
Publication year - 2004
Publication title -
astronomische nachrichten
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.394
H-Index - 63
eISSN - 1521-3994
pISSN - 0004-6337
DOI - 10.1002/asna.200310215
Subject(s) - physics , cataclysmic variable star , polar , polarimetry , intermediate polar , white dwarf , polarization (electrochemistry) , astrophysics , doppler effect , linear polarization , magnetic field , azimuth , emission spectrum , circular polarization , accretion (finance) , stokes parameters , orbital speed , astronomy , spectral line , stars , optics , scattering , laser , chemistry , quantum mechanics
We report on new phase resolved spectroscopic and polarimetric observations of the polar (AM Herculis star) V834 Cen during a high state of accretion. Strong emission lines and high levels of variable circular and linear polarization are observed over the orbital period. The polarization data is modelled using the Stokes imaging technique of Potter et al. The spectroscopic emission lines are investigated using the Doppler tomography technique of Marsh & Horne. Up to now both techniques have been used separately to investigate the geometry and accretion dynamics in Cataclysmic Variables. For the first time we apply both techniques to phase resolved spectroscopic and polarimetric observations: in this case to the polar V834 Cen. This allows us to compare and test each technique against each other and hence derive a better understanding of the geometry, dynamics and system parameters of V834 Cen. Both techniques are consistent with the interpretation that the ballistic stream extends for more than approximately 40 degrees in azimuth around the white dwarf before becoming, threaded by the magnetic field lines. (© 2004 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)