Source of magnetic field of Neutron stars.

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SUMMARY

Neutron stars generate immense magnetic fields, typically around 10^8 Gauss, primarily by inheriting magnetic fields from their progenitor stars. The supernova explosion preserves these magnetic fields, which become concentrated due to the star's compactness. Neutron stars contain a small percentage of protons and electrons, leading to a high density of charge carriers, which contributes to the internal magnetic field generation. Additionally, some neutron stars exhibit a short-lived dynamo effect early in their lifecycle, further enhancing their magnetic fields.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of neutron star composition and structure
  • Knowledge of supernova processes and their effects on stellar remnants
  • Familiarity with magnetic field concepts in astrophysics
  • Basic principles of dynamo theory in astrophysical contexts
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the mechanisms of magnetic field inheritance in neutron stars
  • Study the role of charge carriers in dense astrophysical environments
  • Explore the dynamo theory as it applies to neutron stars
  • Read "The source of magnetic fields in (neutron-) stars" by Hendrik Spruit for in-depth insights
USEFUL FOR

Astronomers, astrophysicists, and students studying stellar evolution and magnetic fields in compact objects will benefit from this discussion.

lindloda
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If Neutron stars are what they are...
I mean made of literally only neutrons ...how do they generate such immense magnetic field (of the order 10^8 or something) ..


I think the name is somewhat misleading and it ought to have a near half ratio of protons ...But still being so compact how do the generate such immense magnetic field ?
 
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lindloda said:
If Neutron stars are what they are...
I mean made of literally only neutrons ...how do they generate such immense magnetic field (of the order 10^8 or something) ..


I think the name is somewhat misleading and it ought to have a near half ratio of protons ...But still being so compact how do the generate such immense magnetic field ?

They inherit most of the magnetic field from the parent star. Magnetic fields survive a supernova just fine, and since the star is so small become extremely concentrated.

The interiors of neutron stars are a few percent protons and electrons but are extremely dense, so they (I think) have the highest density of charge carriers in the Universe. The star generates an internal magnetic field from that, but not much is known about it.

In some neutron star a short-lived dynamo appears very early in the star's "life" and generates an extreme magnetic field.
 

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