Stellar activity in synchronized binaries. I - Dependence on rotation

Abstract

A large sample of late-type binaries with orbital periods from 1 to 100 days has been examined for relationships between stellar activity and rotation period (assumed - with a few exceptions - to be synchronized with the stellar orbital period). Most of the systems are in the RS Canum Venaticorum class of close binaries; none are contact binaries. The activity diagnostics were observed with the IUE and the Einstein Observatory and range from the mid-chromosphere to the corona. There is a dependence of activity on rotation in the synchronized binaries; surface flux is the preferable measure of activity and is best when steps are taken to remove variations in activity filling factors.