Asymptotic giant branch evolution and the initial-final mass relation of single CO white dwarfs

Abstract

Combining recent mass determinations of Galactic CO white dwarfs and their progenitors with the latest evolutionary models for Asymptotic Giant Branch (AGB) stars, I review the initial-final mass relation (IFMR) of low- and intermediate-mass stars. In particular, I analyze the impact on the IFMR produced by a few critical processes characterizing the AGB phase, namely: the second and third dredge-up events, hot-bottom burning, and mass loss. Their dependence on metallicity and related theoretical uncertainties are briefly discussed. Copyright © International Astronomical Union 2013.