Determining hot star wind terminal velocities from low-resolution IUE data.

Abstract

Empirical relations are provided which enable consistent determinations of wind terminal velocities for hot stars where only low-resolution IUE spectra are available. The calibrations are based on terminal velocities derived from the violet limit of `black' absorption troughs seen in high-resolution IUE spectra of saturated wind lines of hot stars, and the corresponding wavelengths of the absorption minima and emission peaks in low-resolution spectra of CIVλ1550 and NVλ1240 P Cygni profiles of the same stars. The relations may be applied to low-resolution IUE data of extragalactic WR and OB stars, and the nuclei of planetary nebulae.