- #1
- 8,252
- 2,664
Strange star puzzles astronomers: BBC
Click For Summary
Discussion Overview
The discussion revolves around the peculiar characteristics of a strange star, particularly focusing on its rotation, angular momentum, and the implications of its physical properties. Participants explore theoretical aspects of stellar dynamics, including the effects of rotation on shape and energy transfer mechanisms.
Discussion Character
- Exploratory
- Technical explanation
- Conceptual clarification
- Debate/contested
Main Points Raised
- Some participants speculate about the potential for the star's equatorial radius to continue increasing and whether it will become increasingly flattened over time.
- One participant discusses the relationship between the star's rotation and its angular momentum, suggesting that as the star bulges due to rotation, its angular momentum decreases, leading to a decrease in rotation rate.
- Another participant raises a question regarding the energy loss associated with the decrease in angular velocity, pondering whether this energy is converted into gravitational waves.
- There is a consideration of the balance between gravitational forces and centrifugal effects, with one participant suggesting that the star's rapid rotation may delay the point at which gravitational forces outweigh centrifugal forces.
Areas of Agreement / Disagreement
Participants express various hypotheses and questions regarding the star's behavior, indicating that multiple competing views remain. The discussion does not reach a consensus on the implications of the star's rotation and energy dynamics.
Contextual Notes
The discussion includes assumptions about the relationship between angular momentum and rotation, as well as the mechanisms of energy transfer, which are not fully resolved. The implications of gravitational and centrifugal forces are also not definitively established.
Who May Find This Useful
Astronomy enthusiasts, astrophysicists, and students interested in stellar dynamics and the physical principles governing rotating celestial bodies may find this discussion relevant.
- #2
drag
Science Advisor
- 1,097
- 1
Cool ! 
The aliens on the 3rd rock from it see
an egg in the sky...
The aliens on the 3rd rock from it seean egg in the sky...
- #3
KLscilevothma
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Will the equatorial radius keep on increasing? Will it become flatter and flatter ?
- #4
physicskid
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Angular momentum
Since it bulges as it rotates, its angular momentum should decrease. So its rate of rotation would decrease too. But if its rotation slows down, its bulge would also decrease and its spin would increase again! So its rotation speed is irregular.
Physicskid
Since it bulges as it rotates, its angular momentum should decrease. So its rate of rotation would decrease too. But if its rotation slows down, its bulge would also decrease and its spin would increase again! So its rotation speed is irregular.
Physicskid
- #5
KLscilevothma
- 315
- 0
Since it's rotating fast, I think it takes quite long to slow down to the extent that gravitational force outweights the centrifugal effect.
Energy = 0.5Iw^2=0.5(Iw)w (I:moment of inertia ; w:angular velocity)
As w decrease, there is loss in KE. Where does the loss in KE go to?(gravitational wave?)
When gravitation outweights centrifugal force, w increase, where does the energy come from?
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