Modelling the Common Envelope Phase in Classical Novae

Abstract Preliminary results of 1– and 2– dimensional hydrodynamical calculations of the common envelope phase in very slow classical novae are presented. We show that frictional deposition of orbital energy and angular momentum into the envelope can potentially induce mass loss. Specifically, we find that despite rapid initial spin–up of the envelope, ejection of mass in the orbital plane continues at a substantial rate.