Abstract

A massive black hole binary might resonantly trap a star (e.g. a white dwarf) and the gas released by its tidal disruption might emit electromagnetic wave signals around the coalescence of the binary. With post-Newtonian equations of motion including gravitational radiation reaction, we numerically studied resonant trappings by black hole binaries with mass ratio 1/100. It is found that 2:1 (and simultaneously 4:2) mean motion resonances of the binaries would be strong and could, in principle, draw small third objects deep into relativistic regimes (e.g. ~10 Schwarzschild radii). The inclinations of the trapped objects could increase significantly and, in some cases, retrograde orbits could be realized eventually.

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

Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.