Photoionization models for the winds from cataclysmic variables

Abstract

Photoionization models are presented for the relative abundances of Si IV, C IV, and N V as a function of the ionization parameter and shape of the ionizing continuum spectrum in the EUV and X-ray energy range. These models are applied to the interpretation of the UV resonance lines observed from the cataclysmic variable TW Virginis by Cordova and Mason. The observed lines are assumed to be formed in gas flowing supersonically out from the continuum source in the form of a stellar wind. It is shown that the shape of the ionizing spectrum can be determined without assuming that the outflow is spherical by fitting to ratios of the line strengths. Models which fit the observed ratios include an X-ray continuum with a low-energy cutoff and may also include a lower luminosity component in the EUV spectral region. Under the added assumption of spherical outflow the derived ionization parameter for the X-ray component can be used to constrain the total mass flux in the wind.