Polarization and rotational distortion

• polarization by electron scattering in rotationally distorted stellar atmospheres (Roche example)

• net p can be either + (↕) or − (↔) depending on combination of temperature, inclination, oblateness, and wavelength of observation

  • equator dominates – greater projected surface area
  • pole dominates – hotter, brighter, forward peaking of radiation field (steeper source function gradient)