On OB-type close binary stars

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Abstract
We present a compilation of masses, radii, effective temperatures and luminosities for the components of 31 binary systems with spectral types in the range O−B5. Typical standard errors are ∼10 per cent in M/M⊙, ∼5 per cent in R/R⊙ and ∼3 per cent in log (L/L⊙). Comparisons of the data on the 16 detached systems in the sample with main-sequence models for individual stars provides further observational confirmation of the recent (1981–86) conclusions from theoretical studies that convective overshooting and stellar-wind mass loss must be included in evolutionary models. A convenient empirical mass-luminosity relationship for the mass range 3.5−20 M⊙ is also determined from these detached components to be, log (L/L⊙) = (0.34±0.13) + (3.59±0.14) log (M/M⊙). Of the remaining systems, eight are in semi-detached configurations and seven are in (mostly) marginal-contact states. Comparisons of these observational data with evolutionary models for binary stars published by Sybesma are made and it is concluded (in agreement with Doom & Sybesma) that all the systems in this sample have evolved or will evolve through a case A mass-transfer process. Although some confidence may be expressed in the comparisons between theory and observations, there are still no stars above ∼40 M⊙ which have reliably-determined masses, radii and luminosities.

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