The discussion focuses on calculating the potential energy and radiated power of the Sun using established physics equations. The potential energy is derived from the formula Potential Energy = GM²/r, where G is the gravitational constant, M is the solar mass (2.0 x 1030 kg), and r is the solar radius (6.96 x 108 m), resulting in approximately 3.83 x 1041 J. The total power radiated by the Sun is calculated using the Stefan-Boltzmann law, yielding a value of 4.47 x 1026 J/s. Finally, the estimated lifetime of the Sun, assuming its energy source is purely gravitational energy, is calculated to be approximately 8.55 x 1014 seconds, or over 27 trillion years.
PREREQUISITESStudents studying astrophysics, physicists interested in stellar dynamics, and anyone seeking to understand the energy processes of stars like the Sun.
hobobobo said:Well I did the lifetime = (energy) / (rate [energy/time] at which sun emits energy) which I got 8.55x10^14 which is a really really big number, that number is bigger than a trillion lol.
hobobobo said:Well I did the lifetime = (energy) / (rate [energy/time] at which sun emits energy) which I got 8.55x10^14 which is a really really big number, that number is bigger than a trillion lol.