Gravitational Radiation and the Evolution of Low Mass Binaries

Abstract

Gravitational radiation of energy and angular momentum can modify and in some cases, control the evolution of a close binary system. The region of interest is briefly delineated. Recent work of the author and colleagues of relevance to this area is discussed, including theoretical studies of accretion, mass loss and mass transfer, and an observational study of a system, HZ 29 where gravitational radiation may dictate its behaviour.