Аннотация:The variability that would be introduced into the optical linear polarization of the Cyg X-1 (V1357 Cyg) binary system due to tidal deformation or shallow partial eclipses of the primary component is calculated, allowing for the optical-depth variation of the source function and single-scattering albedo in a model stellar atmosphere with Teff = 32,900 K and log g = 3.1. Angular distributions of the intensity and polarization per unit area of the stellar surface are derived for selected wavelengths, and the wavelength dependence of the corresponding polarization variability amplitude Ap is predicted. In the optical range Ap should be less than about 0.025 percent, but in principle might be detectable at short wavelengths. The observed V-band variations in p are, however an order of magnitude stronger and cannot result from tidal distortions or partial eclipses.