Calculate Star Mass from Radius: An Integration Approach

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the mass of a star using its radius through integration. The formula derived is M = 4πpc(R3/3), where pc represents the average density of the star. The user successfully integrates to find the mass within a radius and realizes that substituting the total radius 'R' simplifies the equation. The conclusion emphasizes that the total mass can also be calculated using the formula M = ρV, where V is the volume of the star.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of calculus, specifically integration techniques.
  • Familiarity with astrophysical concepts such as density and volume.
  • Knowledge of the formula for the volume of a sphere, V = 4/3πR3.
  • Basic principles of mass calculation in physics.
NEXT STEPS
  • Study integration techniques in calculus, focusing on applications in physics.
  • Learn about the derivation of mass formulas in astrophysics, particularly for celestial bodies.
  • Explore the concept of average density and its significance in astrophysical calculations.
  • Investigate the relationship between mass, volume, and density in various contexts.
USEFUL FOR

Students studying astrophysics, physicists working on stellar dynamics, and anyone interested in the mathematical modeling of celestial bodies.

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Sorry no one was answering my question, and I just wanted to get this done:

Homework Statement


...Hence show that the mass of the star is M = [tex]4\pi[/tex][tex]p_{c}[/tex][tex]\left(R^{3}/3 )[/tex]

Homework Equations


M(r) = [tex]4 \pi[/tex][tex]p_{c}[/tex][tex]\left(r^{3}/3 - r^{4}/4R)[/tex]
This is the mass within a radius

The Attempt at a Solution


I already found the mass within a radius via intergration (look at relevant equations), and I know that I have to build up an 'infinite' number of radial masses to get the whole mass of the star. But do I use integration on this equation or something else? What do I do?
 
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Oohh for f_cks sake... I realized

Total radius of the star is 'R'. Just substitute that in for [tex]r[/tex] and cancel, since r1 is subjective and doesn't factor for the whole star.

WHHHYYYYYY!??
 
The total mass of anything is just M=pV where p is the average density and V is the volume. Here V=4/3*pi*R^3. That's that...
 

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