QPOs in CVs: An executive summary

TL;DR

This paper reviews the properties and classifications of quasi-periodic luminosity modulations in cataclysmic variables, highlighting their similarities to X-Ray binary oscillations and discussing underlying magnetic accretion models.

Contribution

It provides an overview of different types of QPOs in CVs and discusses their potential connection to magnetically controlled accretion and white dwarf oscillations.

Findings

Identification of two main QPO types in CVs.

Similarities between CV QPOs and X-Ray binary oscillations.

Evidence for magnetically controlled accretion models.

Abstract

An overview is given of the properties of the various kinds of quasi-periodic luminosity modulations observed in cataclysmic variables (CVs). The two principal types, known in the CV literature as dwarf nova oscillations and quasi-periodic oscillations, have similarities to the high and low frequency quasi-periodic oscillations in X-Ray binaries. There is a further well observed class known as longer period dwarf nova oscillations. In CVs the observed interrelations between these oscillations suggests a model of magnetically controlled accretion onto a rapidly rotating equatorial belt of accreted gas. Non-radial oscillations of the central white dwarf are observed in some systems.