Binarity among objects with the Be and B[e] phenomena

Abstract

Many B-type stars exhibit two phenomena that are symbolized Be and B[e]. The former refers to presence of a circumstellar gaseous disk without significant circumstellar dust, while the latter have dust.

Although neither phenomenon is fully understood, growing evidence suggests that binarity plays an important role. Recent results on Be and B[e] binaries, along with methods of their discovery, are reviewed.

Keywords

• Stars: emission-line, Be, B[e]
• Stars: binaries: spectroscopic