Rotation of Giant Stars

TL;DR

This paper models the internal rotation of giant stars, incorporating magnetic coupling, angular momentum transfer, and tidal effects, to match observed core rotation rates and understand angular momentum distribution.

Contribution

It introduces a two-layer angular velocity profile model that aligns with Kepler observations, considering Coriolis effects and convective dynamics in giant stars.

Findings

Quantitative agreement with Kepler core rotation measurements.

Inner rotation profile characterized by specific angular momentum or r^{-1} dependence.

Inward angular momentum pumping influences surface rotation and magnetic wind torque.

Abstract

The internal rotation of post-main sequence stars is investigated, in response to the convective pumping of angular momentum toward the stellar core, combined with a tight magnetic coupling between core and envelope. The spin evolution is calculated using model stars of initial mass 1, 1.5 and $5\,M_\odot$, taking into account mass loss on the giant branches. We also include the deposition of orbital angular momentum from a sub-stellar companion, as influenced by tidal drag along with the excitation of orbital eccentricity by a fluctuating gravitational quadrupole moment. A range of angular velocity profiles $\Omega(r)$ is considered in the envelope, extending from solid rotation to constant specific angular momentum. We focus on the back reaction of the Coriolis force, and the threshold for dynamo action in the inner envelope. Quantitative agreement with measurements of core rotation in subgiants and post-He core flash stars by Kepler is obtained with a two-layer angular velocity profile: uniform specific angular momentum where the Coriolis parameter ${\rm Co} \equiv \Omega \tau_{\rm con} \lesssim 1$ (here $\tau_{\rm con}$ is the convective time); and $\Omega(r) \propto r^{-1}$ where ${\rm Co} \gtrsim 1$. The inner profile is interpreted in terms of a balance between the Coriolis force and angular pressure gradients driven by radially extended convective plumes. Inward angular momentum pumping reduces the surface rotation of subgiants, and the need for a rejuvenated magnetic wind torque. The co-evolution of internal magnetic fields and rotation is considered in Kissin & Thompson, along with the breaking of the rotational coupling between core and envelope due to heavy mass loss.