Models for the Circumstellar Envelopes of Be Stars: (Review Paper)

Abstract

A survey is presented of the theoretical attempts to determine the structure of the circumstellar matter around Be stars. The general equations describing the structure and dynamics of Be star envelopes are given. The complications introduced by various physical phenomena are briefly discussed and initial attempts to solve restricted problems are considered. The various ad hoc models proposed for Be stars are discussed and comparisons of the observations with predictions of these models are illustrated. The strengths and weaknesses of these models are evaluated and areas where progress is being or should be made are considered.