The application of of Fermi Dirac statistics in the white dwarf

In summary, the conversation discusses the application of the Fermi Dirac statistics in white dwarf research, specifically in calculating electron degeneracy in hot white dwarf cores. It is noted that while the temperature of a white dwarf is high, it is still considered low compared to the Fermi temperature, making it highly degenerate and requiring the use of Fermi Dirac statistics. The approximation of T=0 is used for practical purposes, but in reality, T<<T_F is more accurate.
  • #1
clumps tim
39
0
hi guys, I wonder if I have fully understood the Fermi Dirac statistics properly, but I have a question on it regarding its application in the white dwarf research. I read the Fermi energy is applicable for T=0, now if the core of a white dwarf is too hot then how can we apply the Fermi Dirac statistics there to calculate the electron degeneracy ?

can you please explain me ?
regards
 
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  • #2
The temperature of a white dwarf is certainly very hot compared to our regular every day standards, but it is low compared to the Fermi temperature ##T_F\equiv \epsilon_F/k## and so a white dwarf is highly degenerate and we *must* use the Fermi Dirac statistics and not Maxwell-Boltzmann statistics.

T=0 is used only as an approximation, it should really read ##T<<T_F## for practical applications. This of course means that the object of interest is not, strictly speaking, totally degenerate, but it is strongly degenerate.
 
  • #3
thanks a lot, now it makes sense
 

What is Fermi Dirac statistics and how does it apply to white dwarfs?

Fermi Dirac statistics is a branch of quantum statistics that describes the behavior of particles with half-integer spin, such as electrons. In white dwarfs, which are highly dense stars composed primarily of electron-degenerate matter, Fermi Dirac statistics is used to understand the distribution of electrons and their energy levels.

Why is it important to use Fermi Dirac statistics in the study of white dwarfs?

White dwarfs are one of the most extreme environments in the universe, with incredibly high densities and pressures. By using Fermi Dirac statistics, we can accurately model the behavior of electrons in these extreme conditions and gain a better understanding of the physical processes at play in white dwarfs.

How does the application of Fermi Dirac statistics affect our understanding of the evolution of white dwarfs?

The application of Fermi Dirac statistics allows us to accurately predict the structure and properties of white dwarfs, which in turn helps us understand their evolution. By studying the distribution of electrons and their energy levels, we can gain insight into the cooling and collapse of white dwarfs over time.

What other areas of astrophysics use Fermi Dirac statistics?

Fermi Dirac statistics is used extensively in astrophysics, particularly in the study of dense objects such as neutron stars and black holes. It is also used in understanding the behavior of matter in extreme environments, such as in the early universe or in the cores of giant stars.

Are there any limitations or challenges in applying Fermi Dirac statistics to white dwarfs?

One challenge in applying Fermi Dirac statistics to white dwarfs is the assumption of an ideal, non-interacting gas of electrons. In reality, there may be interactions between electrons that can affect their behavior. Additionally, the use of Fermi Dirac statistics in white dwarfs is limited to the study of degenerate matter and does not apply to other types of stars or objects in the universe.

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