ELLIPTIC POLARIMETRY OF THE INTERACTING BINARY STAR V367-CYGNI

Elliptical polarization measures of the interacting binary star V367 C yg were obtained. A two-component model for the circumbinary environme nt has been constructed. The variable linear polarization component (a pproximately 1% peak-to-peak) arises from an electron envelope between the stars. Surrounding the entire system there is an extensive ring o f material consisting of neutral hydrogen and dust which produces the constant linear polarization component (approximately 7%). The variabl e circular polarization is probably produced by the circumbinary dust as well. Problems with the removal of the interstellar polarization an d the light dilution from a nearby star are discussed. An alternative model of the binary based on systemic magnetic fields is discussed but eventually discounted. Suggestions for further observations are prese nted.