Calculating the central temperature of the Sun using the ideal gas law

In summary, the central temperature of the Sun can be estimated using the ideal gas law, which relates pressure, volume, and temperature in an ideal gas. By applying this law to the Sun's core, where extreme pressures and temperatures exist due to gravitational compression, one can derive the temperature needed to maintain hydrostatic equilibrium. Calculations typically involve understanding the density and pressure profiles within the Sun, leading to an estimated central temperature around 15 million degrees Celsius. This approach helps in understanding the thermodynamic processes driving nuclear fusion in the Sun's core.
  • #1
accalternata
2
0
Homework Statement
Assuming an ideal gas law with no radiation pressure, P = ρkT/µmH, find
an expression for T(r).
Given mu = 0.61 for the Sun (you can use the Sun’s mass and radius), what
is the central temperature of the Sun in this model?
Relevant Equations
See below
2.PNG
1.PNG


I derived the equation for P so I substituted that into this equation. I'm struggling with finding rho_c (central density) and rho.
Am I supposed to use the average density for rho (can calculate this since I know the radius of Sun and mass)? That still leaves the problem with the central density though.
 
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  • #2
accalternata said:
Am I supposed to use the average density for rho (can calculate this since I know the radius of Sun and mass)? That still leaves the problem with the central density though.
It's hard to know you are supposed to do. This is not my area but (in the absence of other replies) how about this...

It may be acceptable to assume some simple form for ##\rho(r)##. For example (as used in section 5.1 of this link) ##\rho(r) = \rho_{centre} ( 1 -\frac rR)##.

You can then integrate to get an expression for ##M## in terms of ##R## and ##\rho_{centre}## and hence find a value for ##\rho_{centre}##. This should be in the right 'ball park' which (in the context of the question) is probably acceptable.
 

FAQ: Calculating the central temperature of the Sun using the ideal gas law

What is the ideal gas law and how is it used to calculate the central temperature of the Sun?

The ideal gas law is a fundamental equation in thermodynamics given by PV = nRT, where P is pressure, V is volume, n is the number of moles of gas, R is the universal gas constant, and T is temperature. To calculate the central temperature of the Sun, we use a modified form of the ideal gas law that accounts for the conditions in the Sun's core. By knowing the pressure and density at the Sun's core, we can rearrange the ideal gas law to solve for temperature.

What assumptions are made when using the ideal gas law to determine the Sun's central temperature?

Several key assumptions are made: (1) The gas in the Sun's core behaves like an ideal gas, which is a good approximation given the high temperatures and densities. (2) The core is in hydrostatic equilibrium, meaning the inward gravitational force is balanced by the outward pressure force. (3) The composition of the core is primarily hydrogen and helium. (4) Energy transport within the core is efficient, either by radiation or convection.

How do pressure and density values of the Sun's core influence the calculation of its central temperature?

The pressure and density at the Sun's core are crucial inputs for the ideal gas law. The central pressure is extremely high due to the immense gravitational forces, and the density is also very high as a result of the core's compression. These high values of pressure and density, when substituted into the ideal gas law, yield the high temperatures observed in the Sun's core.

What is the estimated central temperature of the Sun obtained using the ideal gas law?

Using the ideal gas law and the known values for the Sun's core pressure and density, the estimated central temperature of the Sun is approximately 15 million Kelvin. This temperature is necessary to sustain the nuclear fusion reactions that power the Sun.

Why is it important to understand the central temperature of the Sun, and how does it relate to solar energy production?

Understanding the central temperature of the Sun is crucial because it directly influences the rate of nuclear fusion reactions occurring in the core. These reactions are the source of the Sun's energy, producing the light and heat that sustain life on Earth. The central temperature determines the balance between gravitational collapse and thermal pressure, maintaining the Sun's stability over billions of years.

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