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The '''Algol paradox''' came about because according to the theory of [[Stellar Evolution|stellar evolution]], stars in a binary star system form at about the same time, and the more massive star will evolve more quickly then the less massive one. The paradox is a result of Algol A being more massive star of the binary pair, yet still a main sequence star, while the less massive Algol B has already reached the subgiant stage in its evolution.

The '''Algol paradox''' came about because according to the theory of [[Stellar Evolution|stellar evolution]], stars in a binary star system form at about the same time, and the more massive star will evolve more quickly then the less massive one. The paradox is a result of Algol A being more massive star of the binary pair, yet still a main sequence star, while the less massive Algol B has already reached the subgiant stage in its evolution.

Astronomers believe the paradox is explained though Algol B losing much of its [[mass]]. As Algol B swelled up into the subgiant stage, its companion star, being so close, would produce [[tide|tides]] in Algol B. Matter from Algol B's now swollen outer shell exceeded its '''Roche lobe''' (the volume where the star's gas is gravitationally bound). These outer gases would then be pulled away by the tidal forces into an accretion stream of matter that moves towards Algol A. Algol B is losing mass at some two hundred millionths of a solar mass a year. Over time, the once massive star been reduced to 79 percent of the Sun's mass.<ref>http://adsbit.harvard.edu/cgi-bin/nph-iarticle_query?bibcode=1995BaltA...4...64P</ref>

Astronomers believe the paradox is explained though Algol B losing much of its [[mass]]. As Algol B swelled up into the subgiant stage, its companion star, being so close, would produce [[tide|tides]] in Algol B. Matter from Algol B's now swollen outer shell exceeded its '''Roche lobe''' (the volume where the star's gas is gravitationally bound). These outer gases would then be pulled away by the tidal forces into an accretion stream of matter that moves towards Algol A, giving Algol B a teardrop shape pointing towards its companion. The result Algol B is losing mass at some two hundred millionths of a solar mass a year. Over time, the once massive star been reduced to 79 percent of the Sun's mass.<ref>http://adsbit.harvard.edu/cgi-bin/nph-iarticle_query?bibcode=1995BaltA...4...64P</ref>

[[Category:Astronomy]]

[[Category:Astronomy]]