High-precision, time-resolved linear polarimetry of two bright dwarf novae

We have monitored in broadband linear polarimetry two bright cataclysmic va riables (CVs) around complete 5-6 hr orbital cycles, with an order of magni tude better precision than any previous observations (save those of Naylor and coworkers) for any CVs. No orbital double-wave modulation, nor flickeri ng on a timescale of similar to 10 minutes, is seen above the instrumental level of sigma (p) similar to 0.03%, either in eruption for RX And (type: d warf nova [DN]/ZC) or in quiescence or in eruption for SS Cyg (type: DN). F urthermore, the level of (interstellar?) polarization remained constant in both states for SS Cyg. This lack of detection in either system is likely a consequence of the fact that there are simply not enough polarizing free e lectrons available to allow detection at this level.