Hydrogen-model atmospheres for white dwarf stars

Abstract

We present a detailed calculation of model atmospheres for DA white dwarfs. Our atmosphere code solves the atmosphere structure in local thermodynamic equilibrium with a standard partial linearization technique, which takes into account the energy transfer by radiation and convection. This code incorporates recent improved and extended data base of collision-induced absorption by molecular hydrogen. We analyse the thermodynamic structure and emergent flux of atmospheres in the range 2500 ≤ Teff ≤ 60 000 K and 6.5 ≤ log g ≤ 9.0. Bolometric correction and colour indices are provided for a subsample of the model grid. Comparison of the colours is made with published observational material and results of other recent model calculations. Motivated by the increasing interest in helium-core white dwarfs, we analyse the photometric characteristics of these stars during their cooling, using evolutionary models recently available. Effective temperatures, surface gravities, masses and ages have been determined for some helium-core white dwarf candidates, and their possible binary nature is briefly discussed.