Grids of model spectra for WN stars, ready for use

Lehrstuhl Astrophysik der Universität Potsdam, Am Neuen Palais 10, 14469 Potsdam, Germany e-mail: wrh@astro.physik.uni-potsdam.de

Received: 24 March 2004
Accepted: 20 July 2004

Abstract

Grids of model atmospheres for Wolf-Rayet stars of the nitrogen sequence (WN subclass) are presented. The calculations account for the expansion of the atmosphere, non-LTE, clumping, and line blanketing from iron-group elements. Observed spectra of single Galactic WN stars can in general be reproduced consistently by this generation of models. The parameters of the presented model grids cover the whole relevant range of stellar temperatures and mass-loss rates. We point out that there is a degeneracy of parameters for very thick winds; their spectra tend to depend only on the ratio . Abundances of the calculated grids are for Galactic WN stars without hydrogen and with 20% hydrogen (by mass), respectively. Model spectra and fluxes are available via internet (http://www.astro.physik.uni-potsdam.de/PoWR.html).