Discussion Overview
The discussion centers on the penetration of neutrinos through dense astrophysical objects such as neutron stars and white dwarfs. Participants explore the implications of density on neutrino flux reduction and the differences between neutrinos and anti-neutrinos in this context.
Discussion Character
- Exploratory
- Technical explanation
- Debate/contested
Main Points Raised
- Some participants note that neutrinos can pass through solid objects like Earth with minimal interaction, suggesting a similar behavior in neutron stars and white dwarfs.
- One participant estimates that neutrinos might penetrate a neutron star by about 10 meters based on the density difference between nuclear and ordinary matter.
- Another participant references a source indicating that the mean free path of neutrinos in lead is about 22 light years, questioning the linear relationship between density and penetration.
- There is a query regarding whether neutrinos and anti-neutrinos have the same penetration characteristics.
- One participant suggests that the interaction rates for neutrinos and anti-neutrinos may differ due to the allowable final states in interactions with nucleons.
- A later reply challenges the introduction of complexities regarding neutrino and anti-neutrino interactions, emphasizing that the cross-section should account for the density of material without additional complications.
Areas of Agreement / Disagreement
Participants express differing views on the extent of neutrino penetration in neutron stars and the relevance of density in determining this. There is no consensus on the relationship between density and neutrino flux reduction, nor on the implications of neutrino versus anti-neutrino interactions.
Contextual Notes
Participants reference various estimates and sources, but there are unresolved assumptions regarding the linearity of density and penetration, as well as the specifics of neutrino interactions with nucleons.