Understanding Neutron Star Rotation: Calculating Kinetic Energy

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the maximum rotation frequency and kinetic energy of a neutron star, characterized by a density of 1017 kg/m3 and a radius of 10 km. The maximum angular velocity is derived as ω = (4πρG/3)1/2, resulting in a calculated value of 5.29 x 103 rad/s. The kinetic energy of the neutron star about its axis of rotation is determined to be 2.34 x 1044 J using the formula K = 1/2 Iω2.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of gravitational forces and centripetal forces
  • Familiarity with the concepts of angular velocity and moment of inertia
  • Knowledge of the gravitational constant (G = 6.67 x 10-11 m3kg-1s-2)
  • Basic proficiency in calculus for solving differential equations
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation of the moment of inertia for various shapes, particularly spheres
  • Explore the implications of neutron star density on its physical properties
  • Learn about the role of gravitational forces in astrophysical objects
  • Investigate the relationship between angular momentum and kinetic energy in rotating bodies
USEFUL FOR

Astronomy students, astrophysicists, and anyone interested in the physical properties and dynamics of neutron stars will benefit from this discussion.

kennyadams1317
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1. The problem statement & given/known data
A neutron star is a collection of neutrons bound together by their mutual gravitation. The density of such a star is comparable to that of an atomic nucleus (10^17 kg/m^3).

a) Assuming the neutron star to be spherical in shape and of uniform mass density, show that the maximum frequency with which it may rotate, without mass flying off at the equator, is ω=(4πρG/3)^1/2, where ρ is the mass density.

b)Calculate ω for ρ=10^17 kg/m^3.

c) Determine the kinetic energy of such a star about its axis of rotation. The radius of the star is 10km.

Homework Equations

& information[/B]
R=10km=10000m
ρ=10^17 kg/m^3
Vsphere=4/3πr^3
Isphere=2/5mr^2
M=Total Mass
m=mass of particle at surface
ω=vr
ω=(4πρG/3)^1/2
Fg=Gm1m2/r^2
Fc=mv^2/r
g=GM/r^2
G=6.67x10^(-11)
K=1/2Iω^2

The Attempt at a Solution


a) Solved
Particle at surface experience two force: Fc (Centrifugal Force) & Fg (Gravitational Force).
When the maximum angular velocity is reached, the two forces will be balanced (direction out & into center)
Fg=Fc
M=ρ(4/3πr^3)
v=ω/r
Fc=mv^2/r =m(ω/r)^2/r =mrω^2
Fg=GMm/r^2
⇒ Fg=Fc → GMm/r^2=mrω^2 → GM=r^3ω^2 → ω^2=GM/r^3
M=ρ(Vsphere)=4/3πr^3*p
⇒ Fg=Fc → ω^2=G(4/3πr^3*p)/r^3 → ω=(4/3πρG)^(1/2)

b) Solved
Alright. I spent at least an hour thinking about this problem and could not come up with the answer in the book. I couldn't stand the thought of leaving this thing unsolved, so I came here seeking help. Of course, now that I'm taking a fresh look at it, I figured out what I did wrong earlier! (I was thinking of G as the the force of gravity rather than the gravitational constant). Anyway, since I've gone to the trouble of solving this much, I might as well finish.
From (a): ω=(4/3πρG)^(1/2)
⇒ ω=(4.19*10^17*G)^(1/2) → ω=(4.19e17G)^(1/2)
G=6.67x10^(-11)
⇒ ω=(4.19x10^17(6.67x10^(-11))^(1/2) = 5.29x10^3 rad/s

c) Solved
K=1/2Iω^2 = 1/2*(2/5πr^2)*(5.29x10^3)^2 = 1/5π(10000^2)*(5.29x10^3)^2= 2.34x10^44 J
 
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Hello Ken, welcome to PF

Well posted, well done. Fresh looks do wonders indeed.
 

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