Classical Novae

9780521843300pre CUP/CNV October 15, 2007 10:41 Page-i CLASSICAL NOVAE Second Edition Since the first edition of this book was published, knowledge of nova phenomena has grown significantly. This is due to the advent of new observational facilities, both on the ground and in space, and considerable advances in theoretical work. This second edition has been fully updated and revised, and contains new contributions which cover the important developments in this field and reflect on interesting new insights into classical novae. The book begins with a historical perspective and an overview of nova properties. It examines thermonuclear processes, the evolution of nova systems, nova atmospheres and winds, the evolution of dust and molecules in novae, nova remnants, and observations of novae in other galaxies. The book details knowledge gained from observations across the electromagnetic spectrum, from radio to gamma rays, and discusses some of the most important outstanding problems in classical nova research. This is the only book devoted solely to the study of classical novae, and as such is an important reference for researchers actively engaged in the subject and graduate students who seeking an introduction. The contributors of this book are internationally recognized experts in their field, and present a balanced mix of observation and theory. M i c h a e l B o d e is Professor of Astrophysics at Liverpool John Moores University. He is a Sen