X-ray binary stars
X-ray binary stars are systems containing a normal star
and a compact object in orbit around it. The compact object may be either
a black hole or a neutron star. In these systems, there is a transfer of matter
from the normal star towards the compact object, a process technically known
as accretion. The compact object is usually surrounded by an
accretion disc formed by the infalling flow of matter spiraling around it.
The interaction between the accreted material and the huge gravitational field
of the black hole or neutron star produces an intense heating of the disc
and makes it radiate in X-rays, hence the name of X-ray binaries.
For any question please contact Josep M. Paredes (josep@am.ub.es)