Reanalysis of c-type RR Lyrae Variable BE Dor, Period Modulations and Possible Mechanism

TL;DR

This study reanalyzed the c-type RR Lyrae star BE Dor, revealing quasi-periodic and abrupt period modulations likely caused by turbulent convection and magnetic activity interactions, challenging previous explanations based on companion motion.

Contribution

It proposes a new mechanism involving turbulent convection and magnetic activity to explain period modulations in c-type RR Lyrae stars, differing from prior models.

Findings

Detected significant quasi-periodic and abrupt period changes in BE Dor.

Ruled out light-travel time effect as the cause of period modulations.

Suggested magnetic and turbulent interactions as the underlying mechanism.

Abstract

We reanalyzed the c-type RR Lyrae star BE Dor (MACHO 5.4644.8, OGLE-LMC-RRLYR-06002) that had been discovered to show cyclic period changes. The photometric data of several sky surveys (DASCH, MACHO, OGLE, ASAS-SN, and TESS) were used for analyses. The O-C diagram and pulsation period obtained from Fourier analysis show significant period modulations in BE Dor. However, different from the previous viewpoint, the changes are quasi-periodic and abrupt. Therefore, the light-travel time effect caused by the companion motion cannot explain the changes. Noting a same subtype star KIC 9453114 with similar phenomena has a high macroturbulent velocity, and the degree of O-C changes seem to be positively correlated with these velocities, we consider that the mechanism leading to period modulation should be caused by the interaction between turbulent convection and magnetic field activity in the ionization zone, i.e., the viewpoint of Stothers. It may not explain the general Blazhko effect but should explain such period modulations in BE Dor and those other c-type RR Lyrae stars. We hope our discoveries and viewpoints can provide some information and inspiration for relevant research.