Understanding the Behavior of Electrons in Neutron Stars

In summary, the question is about what happens to electrons in a neutron star and whether they are expelled or crushed during the collapse. It is also noted that this could potentially violate the principle of uncertainty. Resources are provided for further information.
  • #1
PhilipF
21
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I was reading about neutron stars and wonder if anyone can help me with something that puzzled me , namely what happens to the electrons in such a mass of atomic neuclii? I can only see there might be 2 possibilities .Either 1) that the electrons are expelled from the atoms during the collapse , if this were the case would the star have an enormous positive charge ?
or 2) The electrons are crushed into proximity to the protons . But surely this would violate the principle of uncertainty since if the electrons' position was thus definite then the uncertainty of their momentum would have to be infinite?
thanks for all help
 
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  • #3


Great question! When a star collapses into a neutron star, the electrons are indeed expelled from the atoms. This is because the immense pressure and density of the neutron star's core cause the electrons to combine with protons to form neutrons. This process is known as electron capture and it results in a neutron-rich environment.

As for your concern about the violation of the uncertainty principle, it is important to remember that this principle applies to particles on a microscopic scale. In the case of a neutron star, the matter is so densely packed that the particles are no longer behaving like individual particles, but rather as a collective system. This means that the uncertainty principle does not apply in the same way.

Additionally, the collapse of a star into a neutron star is a chaotic and violent process, and the principles of quantum mechanics may not necessarily apply in the same way as they do in a stable and controlled environment. So while it may seem counterintuitive, the electrons and protons in a neutron star do indeed exist in a state of definite position and momentum.

I hope this helps to clarify your question! Neutron stars are fascinating objects and there is still much to be learned about them. Keep asking questions and exploring the mysteries of the universe!
 

1. What is a neutron star?

A neutron star is a type of celestial object that is formed when a massive star dies in a supernova explosion. It is extremely dense and is made up almost entirely of neutrons.

2. How are neutron stars formed?

Neutron stars are formed when a star with a mass of about 8-30 times that of the Sun dies in a supernova explosion. As the core of the star collapses, the protons and electrons combine to form neutrons, resulting in a highly dense and compact object.

3. How big are neutron stars?

Neutron stars are incredibly dense, with a mass of about 1.4 times that of the Sun but a diameter of only about 20 kilometers. This means that they are only about the size of a small city, but contain the mass of an entire star.

4. What is the surface of a neutron star like?

The surface of a neutron star is incredibly hot and composed of a solid crust, which is made up of heavy elements such as iron. However, the intense gravitational pull of the star causes the crust to be only a few millimeters thick, making it incredibly strong and able to support the weight of the star.

5. What are some unique properties of neutron stars?

Neutron stars have a number of unique properties, including their extreme density, high magnetic fields, and ability to spin incredibly fast. Some neutron stars, known as pulsars, emit beams of electromagnetic radiation that can be detected from Earth, making them valuable tools for studying the universe.

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