On the Role of Mass Transfer in X-Ray Emission of RS CVN Systems

Abstract

We explore the possible role of mass transfer in generating x rays in RS CVn binary systems. We have used system properties from the published literature. We also present results of our ROSAT PSPC pointed observations of RT Lacertae and SS Boötis. We find the evidence that mass transfer is responsible for significant x-ray emission to be suggestive, but not conclusive. Fundamental stellar and orbital parameters and distances must be determined to good precision for more RS CVn systems before progress on this question can be made.