Stars Rotation | What is Angular Momentum?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the rotation of stars, specifically focusing on the concept of angular momentum and its implications during different stages of star formation. Participants explore whether stars rotate and how angular momentum is involved in this process.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants assert that stars do rotate due to angular momentum acquired during their protostar phase.
  • Others inquire about the nature of a star's rotation once it is fully formed, questioning if it retains angular momentum at that stage.
  • One participant references the sun as an example of a fully formed star that rotates, noting its rotation period and the differential rotation of its gaseous structure.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree that stars rotate and that angular momentum plays a role in this rotation, but there are differing views on the specifics of rotation during and after the star formation process.

Contextual Notes

Some assumptions about the nature of angular momentum and its effects on rotation are not fully explored, and the discussion does not resolve the complexities of rotation rates across different latitudes in gaseous stars.

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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