The Pre--Main-Sequence of A-type stars

Young A-type stars in the pre--main-sequence (PMS) evolutionary phase are particularly interesting objects since they cover the mass range (1.5-4 solar ma sses) which is most sensitive to the internal conditions inherited during the protostellar phase. In particular, they undergo a process of thermal relaxation from which they emerge as fully radiative objects contracting towards the main sequence. A-type stars also show intense surface activity (including winds, accretion, pulsations) whose origin is still not completely understood, and infrared excesses related to the presence of circumstellar disks and envelopes. Disks display significant evolution in the dust properties, likely signalling the occurrence of protoplanetary growth. Finally, A-type stars are generally found in multiple systems and small aggregates of lower mass companions.