A question on electromagnetic waves (I think)

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SUMMARY

This discussion focuses on the behavior of spherical dust grains in the Solar System, specifically their attraction or repulsion by the Sun based on their radius. It establishes that dust grains with a radius less than a critical radius (r) will be repelled, while those with a radius greater than r will be attracted. The mass of the Sun is given as 2x10^30 kg, its luminosity as 4x10^26 W, and the density of the dust grains as approximately 10^3 kg/m³. The approach involves equating gravitational attraction and photon pressure to derive the critical radius.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of gravitational force equations
  • Familiarity with photon pressure calculations
  • Basic knowledge of spherical geometry
  • Proficiency in algebraic manipulation of equations
NEXT STEPS
  • Calculate the gravitational force exerted by the Sun on dust grains
  • Learn about photon pressure and its effects on small particles
  • Study the derivation of critical radius in astrophysical contexts
  • Explore the implications of dust grain dynamics in the Solar System
USEFUL FOR

Astronomy students, astrophysicists, and researchers interested in the dynamics of small particles in the Solar System will benefit from this discussion.

runciblesp00n
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"Show that spherical dust grains within the Solar System which have a radius less than a critical radius r will be repelled by the sun, whilst those with a radius greater than r will be attracted towards it. Calculate r given that the mass of the sun is 2x10^30kg, its luminosity is 4x10^26W and the density of the dust grains is of order 10^3kgm^-3. (Neglect the pressure exerted by the Solar Wind).


If possible, I'd like an explanation on how to approach this problem, but not a full answer, as I'd rather do the working, etc myself (I can't really learn just by copying, I take information in a lot better by practicing applications). I just don't really know where to start with it.

Thanks!
 
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Obtain the equations for 1) particles are attracted by the sun due to gravity and 2) replused by the energy in the photons (luminosity) and set them equal to each other.
 

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