Gravitational Collapse: Is Mass Referring to Rest Mass?

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In summary, the question asks if the gravitational collapse of a star to form a neutron star or black hole is based on its rest mass. This is because the relativistic mass may appear differently to different observers. The answer is yes, it is referring to the rest mass.
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nomadreid
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This question will show the superficiality of my understanding of relativity, so any help will be appreciated.
The question: When one says that gravitational collapse will occur to create a neutron star (or black hole) if the mass of the star is above a certain amount, is this referring to the rest mass?
The reason for the guess: the relativistic mass can be above this limit for one observer and below the limit for another observer, and the object cannot be collapsing for one observer and not for another observer.
Er...right?
 
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  • #2
nomadreid said:
This question will show the superficiality of my understanding of relativity, so any help will be appreciated.
The question: When one says that gravitational collapse will occur to create a neutron star (or black hole) if the mass of the star is above a certain amount, is this referring to the rest mass?
The reason for the guess: the relativistic mass can be above this limit for one observer and below the limit for another observer, and the object cannot be collapsing for one observer and not for another observer.
Er...right?

Yes, it's the rest mass.
 
  • #3
Thanks, nrqed.
 

1. What is gravitational collapse?

Gravitational collapse is a process in which a massive object, such as a star, contracts under its own gravity, leading to a decrease in its volume and an increase in its density. This can occur when the internal pressure of the object is not strong enough to counteract the gravitational force pulling it inward.

2. How does mass play a role in gravitational collapse?

In gravitational collapse, the mass of the object determines the strength of its gravitational force. The greater the mass, the stronger the force, and the more likely the object is to undergo gravitational collapse. This is because larger masses have a greater amount of gravitational potential energy that can be released during the collapse.

3. What is rest mass and how is it different from mass in general?

Rest mass, also known as inertial mass, is the mass of an object as measured by an observer who is at rest relative to the object. This type of mass does not change with the object's velocity. In contrast, relativistic mass takes into account the object's velocity and can change depending on the observer's frame of reference.

4. Is rest mass the only type of mass involved in gravitational collapse?

No, both rest mass and relativistic mass play a role in gravitational collapse. However, rest mass is typically the more important factor as it is the mass that is responsible for the object's gravitational potential energy. Relativistic mass may become significant at extremely high velocities, such as those found in black holes.

5. Can mass be created or destroyed during gravitational collapse?

No, mass is a conserved quantity and cannot be created or destroyed during gravitational collapse. Instead, the mass is redistributed within the collapsed object, resulting in a more compact and denser structure. The total mass before and after the collapse remains the same.

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