How Does a Star's Diameter Change with Its Rotation Period?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on calculating the new diameter of a star that changes its rotation period from 25.0 days to 18.0 days while maintaining uniform density. The initial parameters include a star mass of 1.81×1031 kg and an initial diameter of 8.10×109 m. The calculations involve using the formulas for volume, density, and moment of inertia, leading to an incorrect value of 109.01 for the moment of inertia in the final state. The user is prompted to recalculate this value to determine the correct final diameter.

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  • Understanding of stellar physics and dynamics
  • Familiarity with the formulas for volume and density
  • Knowledge of moment of inertia calculations
  • Basic algebra for solving equations
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  • Recalculate the moment of inertia using the correct density and volume formulas
  • Explore the relationship between rotation period and diameter in stellar dynamics
  • Study the implications of uniform density on stellar properties
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Astronomy students, astrophysicists, and anyone interested in stellar dynamics and the effects of rotation on star properties.

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Homework Statement



A star of mass 1.81×1031 kg and diameter 8.10E+9 m rotates with a period of 25.0 days. Suddenly the star changes size, and rotates with a new period of 18.0 days. Assuming a uniform density both before and after the size change, what is the new diameter of the star?



Homework Equations



Volume = 4/3*3.14*R^3
Density = M / VOL
I =2/5*M*R^2

The Attempt at a Solution



R(initial) = 8.10*10^9/2=4.05*0^9
Volume(initial) = 4/3*3.14*(4.05*10^9)^3=2.782*10^29
Density= (1.81*10^31/(2.782*10^29)=65.061
I(initial)=2/5*(1.81*10^31)*(4.05*10^9)^2=1.187*10^50
I(final)=2/5*65.061*4/3*3.14*Rf^3*Rf^2=109.01Rf^5
I(initial)*W(initial)=I(final)*W(final)
1.187*10^50*(2*3.14/25)=109.01*(2*3.14/18)*R(final)^5
R(final)^5=1.187*10^50*(2*3.14/25)/(109.01*[2*3.14/18])
R=(2.983*10^49/38.051)*10^(-5)=3.792*10^9
K=2R=7.58*10^9

the computer said that this answer is wrong and i don't know why
 
Last edited:
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nnokwoodeye said:
I(final)=2/5*65.061*4/3*3.14*Rf^3*Rf^2=109.01Rf^5

109.01 is not right. Try recalculating that number.
 

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