Entropy of a Star: Calculating Sun & Neutron Stars

  • Context: Graduate 
  • Thread starter Thread starter kurious
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    Entropy Star
Click For Summary

Discussion Overview

The discussion focuses on the calculation of entropy for stars, specifically the sun and neutron stars. It explores theoretical approaches and formulas related to thermodynamic entropy in astrophysical contexts.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation, Conceptual clarification, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant suggests using the Boltzmann entropy equation, S=k*ln W, where W represents the number of distinguishable arrangements of atoms or molecules, as a method for calculating thermodynamical entropy.
  • Another participant mentions the entropy formula for black holes, S=\frac{Akc^3}{4hG}, and expresses uncertainty about its applicability to neutron stars.
  • A different viewpoint proposes that knowing the power output of the sun along with the enthalpy and entropy of fusion reactions could simplify the calculation of entropy through a ratio.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants present differing approaches to calculating entropy, with no consensus on a single method or formula applicable to stars.

Contextual Notes

There are unresolved questions regarding the applicability of certain formulas to neutron stars and the assumptions underlying the calculations of entropy in stellar contexts.

Who May Find This Useful

Readers interested in astrophysics, thermodynamics, and the study of stellar properties may find this discussion relevant.

kurious
Messages
633
Reaction score
0
How is the entropy of a star like the sun or a neutron star calculated?
 
Astronomy news on Phys.org
to calculate the thermodynamical entropy, I suppose that you could use the famous Boltzmann entropy equation:
S=k*ln W
W is the number of distinguishable arrangements of atoms/molecules.
If you are able to figure out W, work done!
 
Last edited:
Last edited:
Since we know the power output of the sun and we know the enthalpy and entropy of a fusion reaction, its just an easy ratio.
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 11 ·
Replies
11
Views
2K
  • · Replies 48 ·
2
Replies
48
Views
7K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
  • · Replies 0 ·
Replies
0
Views
3K
Replies
12
Views
4K
  • · Replies 28 ·
Replies
28
Views
4K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • · Replies 0 ·
Replies
0
Views
1K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K