How Does Stellar Radiation Clear Dust from a Proto-Planetary Disc?

In summary, radiation pressure from a star can clear dust from a proto-planetary disc by pushing it outwards away from the star. This is because the area that radiation acts on an object is proportional to the radius squared, while the gravitational force is proportional to the radius cubed. This means that smaller objects, like dust particles, are more affected by radiation pressure compared to larger objects. This is an example of how things do not scale simply in nature.
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RJ Emery
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How does radiation from a star clear dust from a proto-planetary disc, changing the area from one of opaqueness to one of transparency?

Please note that I am a retired engineer with an interest in astronomy, cosmology and particle physics but very much a layman..
 
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Thanks for answering my question.
 
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RJ Emery said:
Thanks for answering my question.

Thanks for asking your question. :wink:
 
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RJ Emery said:
How does radiation from a star clear dust from a proto-planetary disc,
I'd like to add to the contribution from @Drakkith . You might ask why the radiation affects just the dust and not all the bigger stuff. It's because the area that the radiation acts on an object (and hence the force) is proportional to the radius squared (A = πr2) BUT the gravitational force on an object is proportional to its Mass, which is proportional to the radius cubed. (Mass = density times 4πr3/3). For small objects the radiation pressure wind and for large (massive) objects, the gravitational force wind.
This is just an example of how things don't scale in a simple way - why fleas can jump much higher than elephants - in terms of the animals' own height - and why a mouse can jump of the Empire State Building and land safely but one of us . . . . . . . .
 

1. What is "Dust Cleared by Radiation"?

"Dust Cleared by Radiation" refers to the process by which dust particles in a certain area are removed or cleared out by exposure to radiation, such as UV light or ionizing radiation.

2. How does radiation clear dust?

Radiation interacts with the dust particles, causing them to become charged and stick together. This makes them heavier and easier to remove from the surrounding environment.

3. What types of radiation are most effective for clearing dust?

UV light and ionizing radiation, such as gamma rays and X-rays, are the most effective types of radiation for clearing dust. They have high energy levels and can penetrate deep into materials to reach and interact with the dust particles.

4. Can "Dust Cleared by Radiation" be used for large-scale dust removal?

Yes, "Dust Cleared by Radiation" can be used for large-scale dust removal. However, it is important to carefully control the amount and type of radiation used to ensure it is safe for both humans and the environment.

5. Are there any potential risks associated with using radiation to clear dust?

Yes, there are potential risks associated with using radiation for dust removal. These include potential harm to human health and the environment if not used properly, as well as the potential for creating secondary pollution if the dust particles are not properly disposed of after being cleared by radiation.

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