astrophysics: binary stars and stellar masses
Posted: Mon Aug 30, 2010 7:23 pm
Hi,
When studying visual binary stars, we use the formula
M=(4pi^2R^3)/(GT^2) where T is defined as the period of the "system", with the 2+ stars orbiting a centre point in space. What exactly is this period? What does it look like? How are the stars moving?
I've only ever encounted "single" objects orbiting!
Also, whats happening here when there is more than 2 stars?
Thanks
When studying visual binary stars, we use the formula
M=(4pi^2R^3)/(GT^2) where T is defined as the period of the "system", with the 2+ stars orbiting a centre point in space. What exactly is this period? What does it look like? How are the stars moving?
I've only ever encounted "single" objects orbiting!
Also, whats happening here when there is more than 2 stars?
Thanks