The effective temperatures of hot stars

Abstract

We review the effective temperature scale of hot (≤ 10 kK) stars, including results from direct, continuum and ionization equilibrium techniques. We discuss the impact of recent developments in theoretical model atmospheres for OB subdwarfs, dwarfs and supergiants, white dwarfs and Wolf Rayet stars and present a revised T eff scale for OB stars. Direct techniques coupled with Kurucz model atmospheres allow Strömgren photometry to be used as a sensitive T eff indicator for normal stars with T eff ≥ 25 kK. Reliable T eff determinations for hotter, low surface gravity and H-deficient stars require sophisticated ionization equilibrium techniques, generally considering non-LTE and line-blanketing effects.