Modeling of rapid variability in the spectral line profiles of Wolf-Rayet stars

Profiles of variable emission lines in the spectra of Wolf-Rayet stars are calculated using a stochastic cloud model for the inhomogeneous atmospheres of early-type stars. The model assumes that most of the line flux is formed in cold, dense condensations (clouds) that move through a rarified inter-cloud medium whose density monotonically decreases outwards. The formation of clouds is taken to be stochastic. Wavelet analysis is used to estimate the parameters of cloud ensembles. The model can reproduce the general pattern of line-profile variability observed in the spectra of Wolf-Rayet stars. (C) 2001 MAIK "Nauka/Interperiodica".