On Tides and Exoplanets

Abstract

Abstract This paper reviews the basic equations used in the study of the tidal variations of the rotational and orbital elements of a system formed by one star and one close-in planet as given by the creep tide theory and Darwin’s constant time lag (CTL) theory. At the end, it reviews and discusses the determinations of the relaxation factors (and time lags) in the case of host stars and hot Jupiters based on actual observations of orbital decay, stellar rotation and age, etc. It also includes a recollection of the basic facts concerning the variations of the rotation of host stars due to the leakage of angular momentum associated with stellar winds.