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The effect of Main-Sequence stars on age estimates of open clusters

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Abstract

Existing methods for age estimation of open clusters are discussed. Most of the observed open clusters (except extremely young and old) contain 50–90% unevolved Main-Sequence stars. Possible difficulties encountered in estimating the actual age of an unevolved Main-Sequence star are discussed. For a relatively reliable cluster age estimation only a small percentage of cluster members are suitable. The effect of unevolved Main-Sequence stars on open cluster age estimates using the modified method of isochromes is analyzed.

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On leave of absence from the Department of Physics, Kumaon University, Naini Tal, India.

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Sagar, R. The effect of Main-Sequence stars on age estimates of open clusters. Astrophys Space Sci 113, 171–180 (1985). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00650279

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