Further collapse of Neutron Stars

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the factors that prevent neutron stars and magnetars from collapsing into black holes. Participants explore concepts related to degeneracy pressure and the relative abundance of neutron stars compared to black holes, touching on theoretical and observational aspects.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants mention degeneracy pressure as a key factor in preventing further collapse of neutron stars into black holes.
  • Others reference external resources, such as Wikipedia and Forbes articles, to provide additional context and explanations regarding neutron degeneracy and the stability of neutron stars.
  • One participant expresses uncertainty about the claim that there are many neutron stars and few black holes, questioning the observational basis for this assertion.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the abundance of neutron stars versus black holes, and there is uncertainty regarding the observational evidence supporting this claim.

Contextual Notes

The discussion reflects varying levels of understanding about degeneracy pressure and its implications, as well as the challenges in observing and categorizing neutron stars and black holes.

Michaela SJ
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First post and I am not a scientist - just a curious soul.

What stops a neutron star/magnetar from collapsing further into a black hole?
 
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Michaela SJ said:
First post and I am not a scientist - just a curious soul.

Welcome to Physics Forums!

Michaela SJ said:
What stops a neutron star/magnetar from collapsing further into a black hole?

See,
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Degenerate_matter ,

and, in particular, the section "Neutron degeneracy".
 
Thank you and I 'almost' understand the degeneracy pressure and it explains why there are a lot neutron stars and not a lot of black holes.
 
Michaela SJ said:
explains why there are a lot neutron stars and not a lot of black holes.

Is this known to be the case? It's hard to see how, given that the vast majority of both objects are unobserved.
 

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