A theoretical exploratory investigation on cluster white dwarfs

In this paper we present theoretical simulations concerning the luminosity function of cluster WDs, computed under various assumptions about cluster a ge and IMF. Quantitative evaluations are discussed, showing that the WD coo ling sequence can be divided into a portion at large luminosity where the d istribution depends on cooling times only, and a narrow interval of luminos ities at the bottom of the sequence that gives information about both clust er age and IMF Detailed theoretical predictions are reported for a range of cluster ages covering the current estimates for the ages of globular and o ld galactic clusters, discussing theoretical expectations concerning the nu mber ratio of WD to HB stars as a function of both cluster age and IMF Fina lly, we discuss old galactic clusters as relevant targets for future observ ations.