Escape Velocity of a Neutron Star: Relativistic Calculation

AI Thread Summary
To calculate the escape velocity on the surface of a neutron star with a mass of approximately 1.4 solar masses and a radius of 15 km, one must consider both relativistic and Newtonian physics. The escape velocity will be significant, approaching the speed of light, necessitating the use of relativistic kinetic energy equations. A common approach involves equating kinetic energy to potential energy, but the derivation of a relativistic potential energy expression is unclear. Some participants suggest using the Lorentz factor to modify the Newtonian potential, although this raises questions about its validity. Ultimately, the discussion highlights the complexities of relativistic calculations in astrophysics.
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Homework Statement


Calculate the escape velocity on the surface of the neutron star in the previous problem (##m = \frac{2}{3} \cdot 2,1 \cdot M_{\odot}##; ##R = 15km##).

Hint: Basic physics. Note, however, that the escape velocity is not going to be small when compared to the speed of light.

Homework Equations


Relativistic kinetic energy:
\begin{equation}
K = \gamma mc^2 - mc^2 = \sqrt{(pc)^2 + (mc^2)^2} - mc^2
\end{equation}

Standard Newtonian potential energy:
\begin{equation}
V_N = -G\frac{mM}{r}
\end{equation}

Relativistic potential energy:
\begin{equation}
V_R = ?
\end{equation}

The Attempt at a Solution



My idea was to set the kinetic and potential energies to be equal, and solve for the speed as usual. The problem is, I don't know (how to derive) the expression for a relativistic potential, which I'm probably going to need because, you know, it's a neutron star we're talking about here.

I found a source (since none of my books were of any use), that simply multiplies the standard Newtonian potential with the Lorentz-factor ##\gamma##, but I'm not sure that's allowed.

Is it, and if so, why?
 
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Scratch everything I said. I got the wrong result because of an input error... No such thing as a relativistic potential, apparently.

GG, calculator with a small screen.
 
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