Astronomy: Find Star Rotation Period with Given Data

In summary, we need to know the speed, wavelength, and rotation period of the star in order to solve the problem.
  • #1
AllHailBritania
4
0

Homework Statement


Find period of the star's rotation assuming that the axis of rotation is perpendicular to the direction of view.
Given data:
- distance d = 25 pc
- bolometric luminosity observed m = 8m
- effective temperature T = 4000 K
- bolometric absolute brightness of the Sun Mm = 4,75m
- luminosity of the Sun Js = 4 * 1025 W

I also know that the star's spectrum line corresponding to the wavelength exhibits extreme variation of +/- Δλ (symmetrical widening of the line), and the |Δλ| / λ= 10-4.

I would be greatful for your help.
 
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  • #2
Have you tried to start this problem? What do you think the first step might be to solving this problem? What do we need to know about the star in order to deduce its rotation?
 
  • #3
I know that as a result of the rotation one half of the disc Star is coming at us, and the other is moving away, resulting in a Doppler upcoming star of the disc causes shift towards blue line on the receding part - the red. And i supose that we can designate speed form this. But I don't know how, or even if this is a good path to follow.
 
  • #4
Ok, so the speed of the edges of the star dictate how much blue/red shift there is right? So the spread in the frequencies we see determines the speed of the outer-most edges of the star. What is the (non-relativistic) formula for blue/red shift in terms of this speed? That will allow me to find this speed right, since the blue/red shifts are given.

But speed is not the only thing we need. We want to know the period of rotations of the star. Imagine a ball rotating. If I know the speed of its outer most edge, what other things do I need to know in order to find the period of rotation?
 
  • #5
Ok i found it. Δλ = λ*ν*sini/c, and if the axis of rotation is perpendicular to the direction of view sini = 1 so v = Δλ*c/λ. To know the period of the star's rotation we use the formula T=2πR/v. L = 4πR²σT4 from this formula I want to designate R. So I need to find L. Can i designte L from the formula mstar = msun - 2,5log10 (L/Lsun*(dsun/d)2) ?
 
  • #6
Yes, looks like you got it. Just carry through your calculation. :)
 
  • #7
Ok I get it know :D. I'm really greatful for your help, and I'm delighted that such a tutors exist. I was never good at astronomy. Again thank you very much for your time.
 

What is Astronomy?

Astronomy is the scientific study of celestial objects, such as stars, planets, galaxies, and the entire universe.

What is a star rotation period?

A star rotation period is the amount of time it takes for a star to complete one full rotation on its axis. It is typically measured in days or hours.

How is the rotation period of a star determined?

The rotation period of a star can be determined by observing changes in its brightness over time. As a star rotates, different areas of its surface become visible, causing fluctuations in its brightness. By tracking these changes, scientists can calculate the star's rotation period.

What data is needed to find a star's rotation period?

To find a star's rotation period, scientists need data on the star's brightness over time. This can be obtained through observations using telescopes or by analyzing data collected from space-based instruments.

Why is it important to know a star's rotation period?

Knowing a star's rotation period can provide valuable information about its size, composition, and age. It can also help scientists understand how stars evolve over time and how they contribute to the formation and evolution of galaxies.

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