Estimation of central temperature of a star

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around estimating the central temperature of relatively low mass stars, focusing on the relationship between the star's radius and mass, and how this can be used to derive an expression for central temperature.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related
  • Mathematical reasoning

Main Points Raised

  • One participant presents a relationship between the radius and mass of low mass stars, suggesting that the radius is proportional to the square root of the mass.
  • Another participant asks for clarification on the values of central pressure and the gas constant, indicating a need for these to proceed with the calculations.
  • A participant expresses uncertainty about the first step in the solution process, suggesting that substituting the temperature into the central pressure equation might be circular logic.
  • Another participant advises that the first step should be to substitute the mass-radius relation into the equation to eliminate the radius, emphasizing the need to find central pressure to solve for temperature.
  • A later reply indicates that the initial participant has understood the advice and is now able to proceed with the problem.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the approach of using the mass-radius relation to simplify the problem, but there is some uncertainty regarding the values needed for central pressure and the gas constant.

Contextual Notes

There are unresolved aspects regarding the specific values of central pressure and the gas constant, which are necessary for completing the calculations.

Darkkk
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Problem:

Relatively low mass stars can be shown to have their radii dependent on their mass as;

R[itex]\propto[/itex]M1/2

From this, show that the temperature in kelvin at the centre of such a star can be estimated to be

[itex]\approx[/itex]24[itex]\times[/itex]106(M/Msolar)1/2


Relevant Equations:

Tc=(2/3ℝ)[itex]\times[/itex]Pc[itex]\times[/itex](R3/M)


Attempt at a Solution:

I tried to sub in the relation between R and M of the star, but to be quite honest I didn't see myself getting very far...Any pointers at all would be much appreciated! Not too sure on this one.
 
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What did you get when you plugged in?
Do you know [itex]P_c[/itex] and [itex]\mathcal{R}[/itex]
 
I do know R=8.314 joules per Kelvin but Pc is unknown, I am assuming the proportion relation will be used at the end of the problem to get the temperature in terms of the solar mass. I am just not quite sure what the first step is. Perhaps I ought to sub the Tc given in the question into the central pressure equation Pc. What do you think? sounds like circular logic to me...
 
The first step is to plug in the mass-radius relation. That way you eliminate the radius from the equation. You know R, so all you need to find is the central pressure to solve for the temperature.
 
Ah yes I see! I have it now. Thank you for the advice :)
 

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