White Dwarfs: Structural & Evolutionary Overview

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Reliable sources on the structure and evolution of white dwarfs include academic articles and specialized astronomy websites. The discussion highlights the differences in equations across various books, suggesting that these may stem from different formalism rather than conflicting information. The fundamental process involves a star collapsing under gravity after exhausting its fuel, reaching a density defined by the electron degeneracy limit for stars under 1.4 solar masses. Users are encouraged to search for "white dwarf evolution" for additional resources. Overall, understanding these differences in literature can enhance the study of white dwarf characteristics and behaviors.
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Alrite. I am currently trying to write a essay on the structure and evolution of white dwarfs but can't really find any decent websites on this topic. anyone know of any reliable sources of info? i have four books on the topic but all seem to differ from each other when it comes to the actual equations. cheers for any help
 
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charlie85 said:
i have four books on the topic but all seem to differ from each other when it comes to the actual equations.

Can you be more specific? I'm curious about how they differ from one another, as it may just be a different formalism. If so, we may be able to explain it for you.
 
The basic mechanism is pretty simple. When a star exhausts its fuel supply, gravity takes over and compresses it to the greatest density permitted. For just about any star less than 1.4 solar masses, this is the electron degeneracy limit [very dense]. Here is one link, try a search using 'white dwarf evolution' for more [lots more]:
http://www.eg.bucknell.edu/physics/astronomy/as102-spr00/web_pages/web8.html
 

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