The UV spectrum of AE Aqr

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Abstract
Ultraviolet spectra of the cataclysmic variable AE Aquarii obtained by the IUE satellite are reported. They show strong emission lines (Lα, He II and various collisionally excited alkali-like resonance transitions) on a weak continuum. We show that while Mg II, Ca II and some Lα emission probably arise in optically thin regions of the accretion disc, the higher ionization species (N V, Si IV, C IV, He II) must be radiatively produced outside the disc to explain the observations. The parameters required of the ionizing radiation suggest that it comes from the hot inner part of the disc. This picture is used to discuss the time variation of the system and the origin of the unusually strong line emission.

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