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Seismic modelling of subgiant stars: Testing different grid interpolation methods

M. T. Clara, M. S. Cunha, P. P. Avelino, T. L. Campante, S. Deheuvels, D. R. Reese

Abstract
Context. Grid-based modelling techniques have enabled the determination of stellar properties with great precision. The emergence of mixed modes during the subgiant phase, whose frequencies are characterised by a fast evolution with age, can potentially enable a precise determination of stellar properties, a key goal for future missions such as PLATO. However, current modelling techniques often consider grids that lack the resolution to properly account for the fast mode frequency evolution, consequently requiring the use of interpolation algorithms to cover the parameter space in between the grid models when applying model-data comparison methods. Aims. We aim to reproduce the ℓ = 1 mode frequencies within the accuracy limits associated with the typical observational errors (∼0.1 μHz) through interpolation on a grid of subgiant models. Methods. With that aim, we used variations of a two-step interpolation algorithm that considered linear and cubic splines interpolation methods and different age proxies (physical age, scaled age, and central density). Results. The best results were obtained using an algorithm that considers cubic splines interpolation along tracks, linear interpolation across tracks, and central density ρc as the age proxy. This combination yielded, on average, an absolute error of 0.14 μHz but reached maximum absolute errors on the interpolated frequencies of 1.2 μHz for some models, which is an order of magnitude higher than the typical observational errors. Furthermore, we investigated the impact on the accuracy of the interpolation from changes in the physical properties of the stars, showing, in particular, how the addition of core overshoot can significantly affect the interpolation results.

Keywords
asteroseismology / methods: statistical / stars: evolution / stars: fundamental parameters / stars: oscillations

Astronomy & Astrophysics
Volume 694, Article Number A314, Number of pages 20
2025 February

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Faculdade de Ciências da Universidade de Lisboa Universidade do Porto Faculdade de Ciências e Tecnologia da Universidade de Coimbra
Fundação para a Ciência e a Tecnologia COMPETE 2020 PORTUGAL 2020 União Europeia