Nova Outbursts and the Secular Evolution of Cataclysmic Variables

Abstract

AbstractWe present calculations of the long-term evolution of CVs which include the influence of nova outbursts. In particular we investigate the consequences of the discontinuous mass loss due to recurring outburst events and the effects of frictional angular momentum loss (FAML), i.e. the interaction of the expanding nova envelope with the secondary. We show that a description assuming continuous mass loss – averaged over a complete nova cycle – is applicable for determining the mean mass transfer rate and the secular evolution both with and without FAML. Between two subsequent outbursts, deviations from the mean evolution depend on the strength of FAML and on the mass ejected during the outburst. Formally FAML is a consequential angular momentum loss [1] and therefore increases the mean mass transfer rate by pushing the systems closer to mass transfer instability. Depending on the actual strenghth of FAML the long-term evolution of CVs could be significantly different from the standard model predictions.