The time dependence of the phases of the harmonics relative to the 1490 sec fundamental in PG1346+082

Abstract

On the basis of our preliminary analysis of the harmonic structure, we suggest that the 1493 s oscillation is either the orbital period of the system or the rotation period of a magnetized, accreting white dwarf. The 1471 s is most probably a nonradial oscillation of the primary white dwarf since its character mimics that of oscillations seen in single DB variables.

We suggest that the harmonics of the 1493 s period arise in the disk of PG1346+082. Each of the harmonics arise in a different physical location where resonant density enhancements reprocess the radiation from the central object, but whose precise location can vary on the accretion flow.

If this suggestion is correct, PG1346+082 provides us with a unique opportunity to examine the time-dependent changes in the harmonics and thus probe the structure of the disk. Variations in amplitude of one harmonic relative to others could be a valuable probe of density distribution and the flow of mass in the disk. In particular we should be able to follow the large changes in brightness (from magnitude 17.2 to magnitude 13) and in this way and determine its physical origin.

Alfred P. Sloan Fellow