Interpretation of Observations: Constraints on models of individual blue stragglers

Alison Sills
McMaster University

In this talk, I will give an overview of the observable properties of individual blue stragglers that we can use to 
constrain our models of blue straggler formation and evolution. In particular, I will discuss the blue stragglers' 
position in the colour-magnitude diagram, their masses, rotation rates, surface abundances, and pulsation 
properties. I will give examples of how different models fare when trying to explain these blue straggler 
properties. Or, in the cases where models are currently inconclusive, I will outline how the models could be 
improved. I will also highlight areas where no models have been successful, and make some suggestions 
which may help reconcile theory and observations. While I will be concentrating on the properties of individual 
blue stragglers, I may speak briefly about environmental effects which may affect blue straggler properties.