Neutron Star or a Pulsar - what decides

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the conditions that determine whether a remnant core after a supernova becomes a neutron star or a pulsar. It explores the factors influencing this classification, including rotation speed, magnetic field strength, and the nature of the supernova event.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants suggest that a neutron star becomes a pulsar if it is rotating fast enough and possesses a strong magnetic field.
  • It is proposed that the formation of a neutron star versus a pulsar may depend on whether the core exceeds the Tolman-Oppenheimer-Volkoff (TOV) limit after a type Ia supernova.
  • One participant states that a pulsar is essentially a young, energetic neutron star with a strong magnetic field that causes it to emit pulses.
  • Another participant expresses a belief that pulsars are older neutron stars with high angular momentum, indicating a potential misunderstanding about the nature of pulsars.
  • It is noted that pulsars can accrete matter, which creates bright hotspots on their surface, while a neutron star without accretion does not exhibit pulsar characteristics.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the characteristics and lifecycle of neutron stars and pulsars, indicating that multiple competing perspectives remain unresolved.

Contextual Notes

There are assumptions regarding the definitions of neutron stars and pulsars, as well as the conditions under which they form, that are not fully explored or agreed upon in the discussion.

kranav
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After a supernova what compels the left over core to be either a neutron star or a pulsar?
is it decided before or after explosion?
any thoughts would be appreciated.
 
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Whenever a type 1A supernovae releases it's remnants, if the left over rigid core doesn't exceed TOV limit then in that case a neutron star is formed. I suppose the difference between a neutron star and a pulsar would be on the scale of sizes of the magnetic field as hinted by jimmy's post.
 
A pulsar IS a neutron star, usually very young, energetic, and spinning like a top. Its immense magnetic field is what causes the pulses.
 
Chronos said:
A pulsar IS a neutron star, usually very young, energetic, and spinning like a top. Its immense magnetic field is what causes the pulses.
Ah, I was under the impression that pulsars are old, neutron stars with high angular momentum. Thanks for your correction.
 
Pulsars accrete surrounding matter onto their surface. The strong magnetic field of the neutron star funnels the matter onto the poles of the star, and bright hotspots are created on the surface. If a neutron star has nothing to accrete, there are no hotspots, and there is no pulsar.
 

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