Is WD 1445+017 b the remains of a star?

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In summary, the conversation discusses the possibility of a planet orbiting very close to a white dwarf star, which is highly unusual. It is suggested that the planet may have been a massive brown dwarf or that the atmosphere of the star during its Red Giant stage may have prevented it from vaporizing. The conversation also mentions an article about the star WD 1445+017, which describes a planet orbiting it being destroyed.
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AdamAutism1998
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I've just wondered how it is possible for a planet so close to a white dwarf could exist. Yes, the atmosphere of the star during the Red Giant stage would have acted as counterbalance to mass loss, forcing it into a closer orbit. But it would have vaporized any normal planet or gas giant. Let alone, let it last so long, that it only orbits 520,000 miles from the star, or much closer than the star's original radius. Could it be the remains of a massive brown dwarf? Is there any evidence of what the planet could have been? I just want to find out how this scenario could be truly made. Does anyone know anything about the planet? I want to find out more...
 
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FAQ: Is WD 1445+017 b the remains of a star?

What is WD 1445+017 b?

WD 1445+017 b is a planet that orbits a white dwarf star, located approximately 80 light years away from Earth.

Why is there a question about whether WD 1445+017 b is the remains of a star?

This question arises because WD 1445+017 b orbits a white dwarf star, which is the remnant of a star that has reached the end of its life cycle and shed its outer layers.

What evidence suggests that WD 1445+017 b may be the remains of a star?

The planet's high density, which is similar to that of a white dwarf star, and its close proximity to the star are some of the key pieces of evidence. Additionally, the planet's composition and lack of a substantial atmosphere also support this theory.

How does this discovery impact our understanding of planetary formation?

If WD 1445+017 b is confirmed to be the remains of a star, it would challenge our current understanding of planetary formation. It would suggest that planets can form in a much different way than we previously thought, potentially through the disruption and accretion of material from a dying star.

What further research is needed to determine if WD 1445+017 b is the remains of a star?

Further observations and data analysis, as well as theoretical modeling, are needed to confirm whether WD 1445+017 b is indeed the remains of a star. This could involve studying the planet's composition, its orbit around the white dwarf, and its interaction with the star's remaining material.

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