Program: GS-2010A-Q-79

Binary systems consisting of a red giant and white dwarf are possible progenitors of type Ia supernovae. The small class of recurrent novae containing red giants with white dwarf companions more massive than 1.3 solar masses are premier examples. We propose a continuation of a survey of the spectroscopic orbits of red giant - white dwaft binaries to determine the mass distribution of the white dwarfs. This will provide insight into the initial masses of the system and the efficiency of the mass transfer process. Ultimately we seek to understand if a significant number of objects of this type can evolve into single degenerate supernovae.