The properties and origin of magnetic fields in white dwarfs

Abstract

A significant fraction of white dwarfs harbour a magnetic field with strengths ranging from a few kG up to about 1000 MG. The fraction appears to depend on the specific class of white dwarfs being investigated and may hold some clues to the origin of their magnetic field. The number of white dwarfs with variable fields as a function of their rotation phase have revealed a large field structure diversity, from a simple offset dipole to structures with spots or multipoles. A review of the current challenges in modelling white dwarf atmospheres in the presence of a magnetic field is presented, and the proposed scenarios for the formation of magnetic fields in white dwarfs are examined.

Contribution to the proceedings "Stars with a stable magnetic field: from pre-main sequence to compact remnants" (Brno, Czech Republic, 28.8.2017 - 1.9.2017)