SPECTROPOLARIMETRY OF THE NOVA-LIKE VARIABLE V1315 AQUILAE

We present spectropolarimetric observations of the eclipsing nova-like variable V1315 Aql, obtained with the aim of determining whether the single-peaked uneclipsed lines observed in this and related nova-like variables are the result of disc emission scattered into the line of s ight by the wind. The data show linear polarization with a mean value of 0.11+/-0.02 per cent. There are no significant differences between the continuum and line polarizations and no significant variations wit h wavelength or binary phase. We argue that the measured polarization may be attributed to scattering in the interstellar medium and hence c onclude that there is no evidence of polarization intrinsic to V1315 A ql. We discuss alternative models which promise to resolve the controv ersy surrounding these objects.