Mass-loss rates of Very Massive Stars

TL;DR

This paper reviews the physics of hot-star winds, focusing on theoretical models and observational data to determine mass-loss rates of very massive stars, including effects like wind clumping.

Contribution

It provides a comprehensive overview of theoretical and empirical approaches to mass-loss rates in very massive stars, highlighting recent advances and challenges.

Findings

Theoretical models of line-driven winds match observed mass-loss rates.

Wind clumping significantly affects mass-loss rate estimates.

Current observations support revised mass-loss rates considering clumping effects.

Abstract

We discuss the basic physics of hot-star winds and we provide mass-loss rates for (very) massive stars. Whilst the emphasis is on theoretical concepts and line-force modelling, we also discuss the current state of observations and empirical modelling, and address the issue of wind clumping.