Weight on a neutron star ( universal gravity)

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the weight of an individual on the surface of a neutron star, specifically one with the same mass as the Sun and a diameter of 15.0 km. Using the gravitational constant (G = 6.67×10-11), the mass of the Sun (1.99×1030 kg), and the formula F = GMm/r2, the acceleration due to gravity on the neutron star is determined to be approximately 3.527 x 1012 m/s2. The final weight calculation results in a value significantly higher than the weight on Earth, demonstrating the extreme gravitational forces present on neutron stars.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of gravitational force equations, specifically F = GMm/r2
  • Knowledge of basic physics concepts such as mass, weight, and acceleration
  • Familiarity with the properties of neutron stars and their gravitational effects
  • Ability to perform unit conversions and calculations involving scientific notation
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the properties and formation of neutron stars
  • Learn about gravitational effects in extreme environments, such as black holes and neutron stars
  • Explore advanced gravitational physics, including general relativity implications
  • Study the relationship between mass, weight, and gravitational acceleration in different celestial bodies
USEFUL FOR

Students studying astrophysics, physics enthusiasts, and anyone interested in the extreme gravitational phenomena associated with neutron stars.

tnutty
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Homework Statement



Neutron stars, such as the one at the center of the Crab Nebula, have about the same mass as our sun but a much smaller diameter.

If you weigh 650 N on the earth, what would be your weight on the surface of a neutron star that has the same mass as our sun and a diameter of 15.0 km ?

Take the mass of the sun to be = 1.99×1030 kg , the gravitational constant to be
G = 6.67×10−11 , and the acceleration due to gravity at the Earth's surface to be
g = 9.810 .

Express your weight W_star in Newtons.

Homework Equations



F = GMm/r^2

The Attempt at a Solution



mg = w
mg = 650
m = 650/g = 650 / 9.810 = mass of you

F = GMm/r^2

ma = GMm/r^2

a = GM/r^2 = acceleration in the neutron star.

F = ma;

= Mass of you * acceleration in neutron star

where

acceleration in neutron star =

[ 6.67 * 10^-11 * 1.99 * 10^30 ] / r^2--(or D/2)^2

=

6.67 * 10^-11 * 1.99*10^30 / 7500^2
~ 3.527 x 10^12


so

w = mg
= 650/9.81 * (3.527 * 10^12)

is this right, can you check my calculation?
 
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