Modes of Mass Transfer

We consider only binaries where one star is a main sequence star and the other
is a compact object, such as a white dwarf, neutron star, or black hole.

A) Wind Accretion (Detached)

  B) Roche Lobe Overflow (Semi-detached)


Stellar and orbital evolution can push (A) toward (B):

  • Loss of angular momentum in stellar wind will shrink the binary separation
  • Stellar evolution of the donor may increase its radius