How long does it take for a black hole to devour a star?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the process of a black hole devouring a star, specifically addressing the factors that influence the duration of this event. Key variables include the mass of the star, the mass of the black hole, and the distance between them. The conversation highlights that while these factors can provide insights into the rate at which material is lost from the star, the star's response to mass loss, particularly in relation to its Roche lobe, is crucial in determining the overall timeline. Understanding these dynamics is essential for accurate predictions.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of black hole physics
  • Knowledge of stellar dynamics
  • Familiarity with Roche lobe concepts
  • Basic principles of mass transfer in astrophysics
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the mathematical models for black hole accretion rates
  • Study the Roche lobe and its implications for stellar mass loss
  • Explore case studies of stars being consumed by black holes
  • Investigate the effects of distance on gravitational interactions between celestial bodies
USEFUL FOR

Astronomers, astrophysics students, and anyone interested in the dynamics of black holes and stellar evolution will benefit from this discussion.

tkav1980
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I just read an article on Discovery.com that a black Hole was discovered in the process of destroying an unfortunate star that wandered too close. My question is, If you know the mass of the star, the mass of the black hole, and the distance between them can you calculate how long it will take for the star to be fully devoured by the black hole?
 
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I would think so as long as those details gave us knowledge of how fast the materials was being stolen from the star. Whether they do or not, I don't know.
 
A lot depends on how the star reacts to losing mass. It is possible that in the process of giving up mass to the BH, the star will shrink to a point where it is within its own Roche lobe, and when that happens, it will stop losing matter to the BH.
 

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