White dwarf systems: exoplanets and debris disks

TL;DR

This paper reviews observational techniques and theoretical models used to study exoplanets and debris disks around white dwarf stars, providing insights into planetary system evolution and composition.

Contribution

It offers a comprehensive overview of current methods and models for detecting and interpreting white dwarf planetary systems, highlighting recent advances and challenges.

Findings

White dwarf systems host diverse exoplanets and debris disks.

Observational techniques include spectroscopy, photometry, and direct imaging.

Theoretical models help interpret the composition and evolution of these systems.

Abstract

Although there is abundant and diverse observational evidence in support of white dwarf stars hosting planets or debris disks which form in the catastrophic destruction of various planetary bodies, the key processes that explain these observations are still being intensely investigated. The study of white dwarf planetary systems offers a unique perspective on exo-solar composition, that cannot be obtained by any other means. This chapter describes the various observational techniques that are used in order to find and characterize exo-planets and debris disks around white dwarfs. In turn, it discusses how to theoretically interpret these observations by surveying an array of various research tools and models currently employed in this field.