Shaking the Pot of Modelling Tools: Some Open Problems in the Field

Abstract

To inspire and provoke lively discussions, I argue that the accuracy of the basic physical properties of stars, based on analyses of well-observed detached binaries, might be worse than usually believed. I offer some ways how to deal with the situation.

I end with a few comments on the studies of extra-solar planets.

Keywords

• stars: fundamental parameters (classification, colors, luminosities, masses, radii, temperatures, etc.)
• (stars:) binaries: general
• (stars:) binaries (including multiple): close
• (stars:) binaries: eclipsing,