Stars Rotation | What is Angular Momentum?

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SUMMARY

Stars do indeed rotate, primarily due to the angular momentum acquired during their protostar phase. This rotation persists even after the star is fully formed, as evidenced by our Sun, which completes a rotation approximately every 24.5 days at its equator. The gaseous nature of stars allows for differential rotation, meaning different latitudes can rotate at varying rates. This phenomenon is well-documented in sources such as Wikipedia, specifically in articles on pulsars and solar rotation.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of angular momentum in astrophysics
  • Familiarity with the protostar phase of star formation
  • Knowledge of solar rotation and its characteristics
  • Basic concepts of differential rotation in gaseous bodies
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the mechanics of angular momentum in astrophysics
  • Explore the stages of star formation, focusing on the protostar phase
  • Study solar rotation in detail, including its effects on solar phenomena
  • Investigate differential rotation in other celestial bodies, such as gas giants
USEFUL FOR

Astronomy students, astrophysicists, and anyone interested in the dynamics of star formation and rotation.

shounakbhatta
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Hello,

Do stars rotate? I mean to say that do they rotate in angular momentum? Or there is any other rotation?
 
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Yes, stars rotate due to angular momentum acquired from gravitational collapse during their protostar phase.
 
Hello,

Thanks. I believe pro star is the earlier stage of star formation. What happens when the star if finally formed? Does it have a angular momentum then also?
 
The star we know best, our sun, is "finally formed" and it rotates. According to wikipedia, http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Solar_rotation
its equator makes one rotation in about 24 and a half days. Of course, because it is gaseous, different parts, at different latitudes, can rotate at different rates.
 

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