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Cataclysmic Variables

Almost all cataclysmic variables have binary periods less than 12 hours. Combining this fact with the fact that the compact object in the system is a white dwarf, scientists concluded that the normal companion MUST be a low mass star. There is just not enough room in the system for there to be a massive star!

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Last Updated: Monday, 27-Sep-2004 11:26:11 EDT