Abstract
We present infrared spectroscopy of Nova Cassiopeiae 1993 (V705 Gas) in the period before dust formation. We find strong emission in the first-overtone CO bands before the nova reached maximum light - the earliest detection of a molecule in a nova. Our observations suggest the presence of a relatively cool (less than or similar to 4500 K), neutral zone in the ejecta, as required by chemical modelling of nova winds. CO formation is likely to have been dominated by the H-2 route rather than by direct radiative association of C and O. We suggest that radiative cooling of the ejected material by CO could play a major role in the grain formation process.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
