The Arsenal Parameter File

The arsenal parameter file is organized into blocks related to different physical modules in the code. We describe each block below. Some of these choices may be more or less compatible with one another. Where there is an egregious example of poorly matched choices, the code will provide a warning.

Population Parameters

This block specifies properties of the population of stars that you would like to simulate. This includes the distribution of stars as a function of mass (the IMF) as well as distributions over properties of binaries within the population. Right now the code only allows for a single metallicity and age for the population or a “simple stellar population” (SSP).

Choices related to these options are detailed below.

Stellar Evolution

This block controls options for the stellar evolution code you would like to use for both single and binary star evolution. These choices essentially map the initial properties of a star (i.e. its mass for a single star or binary properties for a binary) to things like its mass, luminosity, and effective temperature as a function of its age.

Choices related to these parameters are detailed below.

Atmosphere Modeling

This block determines how the properties of a star (its luminosity, mass, radius, effective temperature, etc.) lead to radiative emission from its atmosphere.

Mechanical Feedback

This block gives choices for how stars return mass and energy through both stellar winds (of multiple types) and supernovae (of multiple types). Included within these blocks are choices for the yields of each feedback mechanism or the mass fraction of each element that is returned.