Solving the mode identification problem in asteroseismology of F stars observed with Kepler

Abstract

Asteroseismology of F-type stars has been hindered by an ambiguity in identification of their oscillation modes. The regular mode pattern that makes this task trivial in cooler stars is masked by increased line widths. The absolute mode frequencies, encapsulated in the asteroseismic variable ε, can help solve this impasse because the values of ε implied by the two possible mode identifications are distinct. We find that the correct ε can be deduced from the effective temperature and the line widths and we apply these methods to a sample of solar-like oscillators observed with Kepler. © 2012. The American Astronomical Society. All rights reserved..