Locating the flickering source in polars

Abstract

ABSTRACT Flickering is a fast variability observed in all accreting systems. It has been shown that in most cataclysmic variables flickering originates in the accretion disc. However, in polars the strong magnetic field of the white dwarf prevents the formation of an accretion disc. Therefore, the origin of flickering in polars is not clear. We analysed the changes of flickering amplitude with orbital phase in seven polars in order to reveal its site of origin. We show that at least in some polars there are two separate sources of flickering. Moreover, at least one of the sources is located at a large distance from the main source of light in the system.