Synopses & Reviews
This timely volume provides the first comprehensive survey of cataclysmic variable stars, integrating theory and observation into a single, synthesised text.
Review
"...provides a complete introduction....also serves as a valuable review of the physics of accretion disks and interacting binary stars." Scott Kenyon, Physics Today"It is a definite buy for any professional....Think of it as a treasure hunt; there is a treasure to be found here." E.F. Milone, American Scientist
Review
"...this book remains the most comprehensive single text on the subject of cataclysmic variables...Although the number and typology of CVs we now know has increased since this book was published, the science and descriptions of the binary systems in this volume remain as relevant today as when it was published in 1995. No self respecting CV junkie should be without a copy."
Synopsis
The study of cataclysmic variables - interacting binary stars containing a white dwarf accreting from an orbiting companion - is undergoing an exciting renaissance, as it embraces observations at all wavelengths. In turn these developments also help in our understanding of X-ray binaries, black holes and active galactic nuclei. This timely volume provides the first comprehensive survey of cataclysmic variable stars, integrating theory and observation (at all wavelengths and on all time-scales) into a single, synthesised text. A very detailed bibliography is also provided to guide the reader to pertinent primary literature.
Table of Contents
Preface; 1. Historical development; 2. Structure of non-magnetic systems; 3. Dwarf novae; 4. Nova-like variables and nova remnants; 5. Novae in eruption; 6. Polars; 7. Intermediate polars; 8. DQ Herculis stars; 9. Evolution of cataclysmic variables; Bibliography; Index.