How Does Mass Loss Influence Orbital Expansion?

  • Thread starter Thread starter accalternata
  • Start date Start date
Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the relationship between mass loss and orbital expansion, specifically utilizing Einstein's equation e=mc² to correlate energy emission with mass loss. The participant is attempting to connect this concept with the rate of change of the semi-major axis (da/dt) but is struggling to determine the rate of energy loss. The conversation highlights the importance of established formulas and references for accurate calculations in astrophysics.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Einstein's mass-energy equivalence (e=mc²)
  • Familiarity with orbital mechanics and the semi-major axis (da/dt)
  • Basic knowledge of energy loss calculations in astrophysical contexts
  • Ability to interpret scientific references and formulas
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the derivation and applications of e=mc² in astrophysics
  • Study the principles of orbital mechanics, focusing on the semi-major axis and its rate of change
  • Explore methods for calculating energy loss in astrophysical systems
  • Review relevant scientific literature and references related to mass loss and orbital dynamics
USEFUL FOR

Astronomers, astrophysicists, and students studying orbital mechanics and mass-energy relationships in celestial bodies.

accalternata
Messages
2
Reaction score
0
Homework Statement
How much do you expect the Earth-Sun system to expand over the 10 Gyr
main-sequence lifetime of the Sun, given that the Sun is losing mass in the form of
light? And how much
given the mass-loss rate of 3×10−14 M⊙ yr−1 associated with the solar wind?
Relevant Equations
See below
1.PNG
2.PNG


I need help with d) and e).
Currently how I've approached it is by using the fact that e=mc^2 and I can correlate this emission of light with loss of mass.

Then I can use the formulas in a) to correlate this with da/dt. I'm struggling to figure out what the rate of energy loss is though.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
accalternata said:
I'm struggling to figure out what the rate of energy loss is though.
Have you tried the reference given in the question?
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
Replies
30
Views
4K
  • · Replies 13 ·
Replies
13
Views
2K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
3K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
1K
  • · Replies 11 ·
Replies
11
Views
3K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
1K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
5K
Replies
2
Views
1K