We describe spectroscopic observations of 21 low-mass (<=0.45M_{sun}_) white dwarfs (WDs) from the Palomar-Green survey obtained over four years. We use both radial velocities and infrared photometry to identify binary systems, and find that the fraction of single, low-mass WDs is <=30%. We discuss the potential formation channels for these single stars including binary mergers of lower-mass objects. However, binary mergers are not likely to explain the observed number of single low-mass WDs. Thus, additional formation channels, such as enhanced mass loss due to winds or interactions with substellar companions, are likely.

Cone search capability for table J/ApJ/730/67/wdwarfs (Physical and binary orbital parameters of the observed white dwarfs)