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Published online by Cambridge University Press: 26 May 2016
A new method to find the density distribution in disks around protostellar objects, based on linear polarization maps, is presented. This method uses the displacement of the polarization null points as a function of wavelength. Variations in optical depth are converted into density variations with opacity tables for dust grains. The method has been applied with five linear polarization maps obtained at different wavelengths of the classical T Tauri star HL Tau. The slope of the density as a function of radius in the disk is compatible with the model of the standard protosolar nebula. The total mass of the disk is compatible with values determined by other methods. Other objects have been analyzed, with similar results, although with a smaller number of wavelength bands.