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Binary and Multiple Star Systems
Consider, for example, the evolution of a binary system with two massive stars, A
and B, in which A is the most massive. Because of its greater mass, A will become
a red giant star first.
As it expands in size, star A will dump a large fraction of its mass onto star B,
changing the appearance of both stars. Star A soon uses up its remaining nuclear
fuel, explodes as a supernova, and leaves behind a neutron star or black hole. Later
when star B becomes a red giant, material flowing onto the neutron star or black
hole will produce a strong X-ray source that is called an X-ray binary. The X-ray
power of an X-ray binary is millions of times that of the X-rays from normal
stellar coronas.
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