Abstract

A short overview is given of some recent progress in the theory of spectropolarimetry as a diagnostic of axisymmetric hot star wind density and velocity structure, covering the inferences possible from broad band polarimetry, from polarimetric light curves and simultaneous absorption line data, and from spectropolarimetric line profiles. Recent work on joint spectro-, photo-, and polari-metric study of the properties of wind inhomogeneities is also summarised. One of the most important conclusions is that the blobs necessary in WR winds to produce narrow emission line features cannot also produce polarimetric light curve features unless they originate in enhanced mass loss sources at the stellar surface rather than solely in density redistribution processes, such as turbulence, in the wind itself.

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.