1994A&A...291..786D

Based upon data published by Harmanec & Scholz (1993) and Hubeny & Plavec (1991), a possible set of initial mass values is determined for the semidetached binary system β Lyrae. A conservative solution corresponds to a case AB of mass transfer and leads to several discrepancies with the observed characteristics. We find that β Lyrae is approaching the end of the mass transfer, having evolved in a nonconservative way from an initial system of 9M_☉+7.65M_☉. From these values the evolution of both components is followed up to the present state and to the end of the mass transfer. This model is then used to discuss the relationship between the pre-mass reversal system SV Centauri and β Lyrae.