Distances to Cataclysmic Variables using Linear Polarimetry

A model independent method is proposed for estimating the distances to Cataclysmic Variables (CVs) using linear polarimetry. A polarization versus distance relation is constructed by measuring the linear polarization of field stars along the line of sight to the CV. The distance of the CV can be estimated by measuring its polarization and by assuming its intrinsic polarization is negligible in relation to the interstellar polarization, an assumption that appears to be true in most cases. We show that an accuracy of 6% is achievable by estimating the distance to VW Hyi to be 82 ± 5 pc. Rough distance estimates of other CVs with measured polarization are also given.