Calculating Binding Energy of Neutron Stars

In summary, gravitational binding energy dominates over other contributions when calculating the radius of a neutron star.
  • #1
M. next
382
0
in general how to calculate binding energy of neutron star?
in simple details, what tricks may be included in such a problem..
 
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  • #3
May be you will be interested in this paper
http://iopscience.iop.org/0004-637X/550/1/426
Abstract of which reads

'The structure of neutron stars is considered from theoretical and observational perspectives. We demonstrate an important aspect of neutron star structure: the neutron star radius is primarily determined by the behavior of the pressure of matter in the vicinity of nuclear matter equilibrium density. In the event that extreme softening does not occur at these densities, the radius is virtually independent of the mass and is determined by the magnitude of the pressure. For equations of state with extreme softening or those that are self-bound, the radius is more sensitive to the mass. Our results show that in the absence of extreme softening, a measurement of the radius of a neutron star more accurate than about 1 km will usefully constrain the equation of state. We also show that the pressure near nuclear matter density is primarily a function of the density dependence of the nuclear symmetry energy, while the nuclear incompressibility and skewness parameters play secondary roles. In addition, we show that the moment of inertia and the binding energy of neutron stars, for a large class of equations of state, are nearly universal functions of the star's compactness. These features can be understood by considering two analytic, yet realistic, solutions of Einstein's equations, by, respectively, Buchdahl and Tolman. We deduce useful approximations for the fraction of the moment of inertia residing in the crust, which is a function of the stellar compactness and, in addition, the pressure at the core-crust interface.'
 
  • #4
Thank you.
 

FAQ: Calculating Binding Energy of Neutron Stars

1. What is binding energy and why is it important in the study of neutron stars?

Binding energy is a measure of the energy required to hold a system together. In the context of neutron stars, it refers to the energy needed to keep the star's dense core from collapsing under the immense force of gravity. Understanding binding energy is crucial in understanding the stability and evolution of neutron stars.

2. How is binding energy calculated for neutron stars?

Binding energy for neutron stars is calculated using the mass-energy equivalence equation, E=mc², where E is energy, m is mass, and c is the speed of light. By measuring the mass and radius of a neutron star, scientists can use this equation to determine the total binding energy.

3. Can binding energy be negative for neutron stars?

No, binding energy cannot be negative for neutron stars. Negative binding energy would indicate that the star's core is not held together, which is not possible as the strong nuclear force and neutron degeneracy pressure keep the core from collapsing.

4. How does the binding energy of neutron stars compare to other celestial bodies?

The binding energy of neutron stars is incredibly high compared to other celestial bodies, such as planets or even ordinary stars. This is due to their extreme density and strong gravitational pull, which requires a significant amount of energy to overcome.

5. How does the binding energy of neutron stars affect their lifespan?

The binding energy of neutron stars plays a crucial role in their lifespan. As the star ages and cools, it gradually loses energy and shrinks. This loss of binding energy can lead to the formation of black holes if the star's mass falls below a critical threshold. Therefore, the binding energy directly impacts the ultimate fate of a neutron star.

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