Physics Notation Help: M_\odot - Mass?

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SUMMARY

The notation M_\odot represents the solar mass, which is approximately 2 x 1030 kg. This symbol is commonly used in astrophysics to denote mass in relation to the mass of the Sun. Understanding this notation is essential for calculations involving stellar masses and comparisons in astronomical contexts.

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FeDeX_LaTeX
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Hi, what does this notation mean?

[tex]M_\odot[/tex]

Does it mean mass?

Thanks
 
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FeDeX_LaTeX said:
Hi, what does this notation mean?

[tex]M_\odot[/tex]

Does it mean mass?

Thanks

It is the symbol for the solar mass, which is around 2x10^30 kg.

Ref:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Solar_mass

Torquil
 

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