Main-sequence mass-loss: Lithium dilution in the hyades and the sun

Abstract

We investigate the consequences of possible main-sequence mass-loss on surface lithium abundances through the use of evolving stellar models. In particular, we attempt to model the lithium depletion observed in the Sun and the Hyades G-dwarfs. Mass-loss as an explanation for the lithium depletion has mixed success. In the case of the solar lithium problem we conclude that mass-loss can be a marginal explanation. In the case of the Hyades G-dwarfs (a.k.a. “The Classical Hyades Lithium Problem”) we find, contrary to preliminary investigations, that mass-loss cannot be a significant contributor to the depletion pattern seen in these stars. Furthermore, we show that quasi-analytical means alone appear to be sufficiently accurate to model the consequences of mass-loss in these stars. With the results of our calculations we limit the amount of mass that may have been lost on the main-sequence by Hyades G-dwarfs.