Calculating the central temperature of the Sun using the ideal gas law

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SUMMARY

This discussion focuses on calculating the central temperature of the Sun using the ideal gas law and the relationship between central density and average density. The user is attempting to derive the equation for pressure (P) while grappling with determining the central density (ρ_c) and average density (ρ). A suggested approach involves assuming a simple form for the density function, specifically ρ(r) = ρ_center (1 - r/R), which allows for integration to express mass (M) in terms of radius (R) and central density (ρ_center), ultimately leading to a viable estimate for ρ_center.

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accalternata
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Homework Statement
Assuming an ideal gas law with no radiation pressure, P = ρkT/µmH, find
an expression for T(r).
Given mu = 0.61 for the Sun (you can use the Sun’s mass and radius), what
is the central temperature of the Sun in this model?
Relevant Equations
See below
2.PNG
1.PNG


I derived the equation for P so I substituted that into this equation. I'm struggling with finding rho_c (central density) and rho.
Am I supposed to use the average density for rho (can calculate this since I know the radius of Sun and mass)? That still leaves the problem with the central density though.
 
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accalternata said:
Am I supposed to use the average density for rho (can calculate this since I know the radius of Sun and mass)? That still leaves the problem with the central density though.
It's hard to know you are supposed to do. This is not my area but (in the absence of other replies) how about this...

It may be acceptable to assume some simple form for ##\rho(r)##. For example (as used in section 5.1 of this link) ##\rho(r) = \rho_{centre} ( 1 -\frac rR)##.

You can then integrate to get an expression for ##M## in terms of ##R## and ##\rho_{centre}## and hence find a value for ##\rho_{centre}##. This should be in the right 'ball park' which (in the context of the question) is probably acceptable.
 

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