The Roche Model

Assumptions of the Standard Roche Model

  1. Stars are point masses.

  2. Orbits are circular.

  3. Stars rotate synchronously.

  4. No radiation pressure effects.

Usefulness

  1. Shows whether or not mass transfer occurs.

  2. Shows the figures of the two stars.

Equipotential Surfaces

Extended Roche Model

  1. Eccentric orbits.

  2. Non-synchronous rotation.

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