Star Cluster Ecology II: Binary evolution with single-star encounters

TL;DR

This paper models the complex effects of three-body encounters involving binaries and single stars in globular cluster cores, focusing on binary evolution and formation mechanisms.

Contribution

It introduces a model for binary-single star interactions based on realistic cluster conditions, incorporating tidal capture and initial binary populations.

Findings

Simulated binary evolution influenced by three-body encounters.

Identified pathways for binary formation via tidal capture.

Set the stage for integrating stellar evolution with N-body dynamics.

Abstract

Three-body effects greatly complicate stellar evolution. We model the effects of encounters of binaries with single stars, based on parameters chosen from conditions prevalent in the cores of globular clusters. For our three-body encounters, we start with a population of primordial binaries, and choose incoming stars from the evolving single star populations of Portgies Zwart, Hut and Verbunt (1997). In addition, we study the formation of new binaries through tidal capture among the single stars. In subsequent papers in this series, we will combine stellar evolution with the dynamics of a full N-body system.