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Published online by Cambridge University Press: 26 May 2016
We examine Hα equivalent widths versus spectral-types for 41 Be stars. Although the Wα value is scattered for a given spectral-type, a well-defined upper limit exists. Most shell stars are located in the upper limit region. The shell stars all have v sin i/vcri larger than the normal Be stars in the upper limit region. This strongly suggests that the distinction between shell stars and normal Be stars of high equivalent width is a result of variation in inclination angle i. Polarization data also support this hypothesis.