How Is the Radius of a Star Determined from Its Density Profile?

In summary: So there is no matter outside the star. In summary, the conversation discusses finding the radius of a star using the equation P=Kρ^2 which is a solution to the combination of the Hydrostatic Support equation and the mass continuity equation. The conversation also addresses the issue of finding the density of the star at the surface and the validity of the equation outside of the star's radius.
  • #1
Poirot
94
3

Homework Statement



P=Kρ^2 is a solution to the equation of the combination of the Hydrostatic Support equation and the mass continuity equation. Find the radius of the star.

Homework Equations


ρ(r) = (A / r) sin (root( 2πG/K) r)

The Attempt at a Solution


The first part of this was to prove first it was a solution which I have done fairly easily, however the last part about the radius has left me confused.
I figured the density at the surface (r=R) was equal to zero therefore:

0=(A / r) sin (root( 2πG/K) r)

And for the non trivial solution:

sin (root( 2πG/K) r)=0

so root(2πG/K) r)=nπ (for n integer)

However this would give a range of radii for the star which doesn't seem right.
Can you see what I've done wrong, thanks?
 
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  • #2
You get a position of zero density at root(2πG/K) r)=π. Do you expect matter outside this region? What would support it?
Is ρ(r) = (A / r) sin (root( 2πG/K) r) even valid outside that region?
 
  • #3
What happens to the other solutions? Surely root(2πG/K) r)=2π etc is still valid? and the density should only hold for the star up to radius R, and no there wouldn't be matter outside the region.
mfb said:
You get a position of zero density at root(2πG/K) r)=π. Do you expect matter outside this region? What would support it?
Is ρ(r) = (A / r) sin (root( 2πG/K) r) even valid outside that region?
 
  • #4
It is a mathematical solution, but the density profile is not described by a sine in that area any more. The density is zero after the function hits its first zero.
 

FAQ: How Is the Radius of a Star Determined from Its Density Profile?

What is the "radius" of a star and why is it important to find?

The "radius" of a star is the distance from its center to its surface. It is important to find because it provides crucial information about the size, temperature, and energy output of the star. It also helps scientists classify stars and understand their evolution.

How do scientists determine the radius of a star?

Scientists use a variety of methods to determine the radius of a star, including measuring its brightness and temperature, observing its movement and gravitational effects on other objects, and using mathematical models based on the star's properties.

Can the radius of a star change over time?

Yes, the radius of a star can change over time. Stars are constantly undergoing changes in their internal structure and composition, which can affect their size. For example, as a star ages and runs out of fuel, it can expand and become a red giant before eventually collapsing into a white dwarf.

Is the radius of a star the same as its diameter?

No, the radius of a star is half of its diameter. The diameter is the distance across the widest part of the star, while the radius is the distance from the center to the edge.

Why is it difficult to accurately measure the radius of a star?

Measuring the radius of a star is a challenging task because they are incredibly far away from Earth and appear as small points of light in the sky. Additionally, stars can have irregular shapes and varying levels of brightness, which can make it difficult to determine their true size.

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