What are the maximum masses of White Dwarves and of Neutron stars?

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SUMMARY

The maximum mass of white dwarf stars is defined by the Chandrasekhar limit, while neutron stars are constrained by the Tolman–Oppenheimer–Volkoff (TOV) limit, which is approximately 2.17 solar masses for non-rotating, cold neutron stars. Understanding these limits is crucial for astrophysical research, particularly in the context of events involving neutron stars, such as potential collisions with black holes. Relevant articles from Scientific American and Science Magazine provide further insights into these phenomena.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of the Chandrasekhar limit in astrophysics
  • Familiarity with the Tolman–Oppenheimer–Volkoff limit
  • Basic knowledge of neutron star characteristics
  • Awareness of gravitational wave detection and its implications
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the implications of the Tolman–Oppenheimer–Volkoff limit on neutron star stability
  • Explore the role of gravitational waves in astrophysical events involving neutron stars
  • Investigate recent discoveries related to neutron star collisions and black holes
  • Study the differences between white dwarfs and neutron stars in terms of mass limits and formation
USEFUL FOR

Astronomers, astrophysicists, and students interested in stellar evolution, neutron star physics, and gravitational wave research will benefit from this discussion.

Cerenkov
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Hello.

I'm very interested to find out more about the maximum masses of white dwarf stars and of neutron stars. Please note that while my level in this forum is Basic, I am familiar with the role that the Chandrasekhar limit has played in our understanding of white dwarves. I was therefore wondering if there is a similar kind of limit applied to neutron stars.
Thank you for any help given.

Cerenkov.
 
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Thank you for this Drakkith.

Then am I right to presume that the TOV limit will be crucial to our further understanding of this event... should it actually pan out?

https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/astronomers-spy-a-black-hole-devouring-a-neutron-star/https://www.sciencemag.org/news/201...spotted-black-hole-and-neutron-star-colliding
Please note that I have clicked on this link too.
https://www.sciencemag.org/news/201...ht-limit-neutron-stars-densest-objects-cosmos
Thank you,

Cerenkov.
 
Cerenkov said:
Then am I right to presume that the TOV limit will be crucial to our further understanding of this event... should it actually pan out?

I'm not sure. I'm not familiar enough with this topic to get into any of the nitty-gritty details unfortunately.
 
Well, that's ok Drakkith.

I'll follow up some of the 'Related Threads' and see if they can help me further.

Thanks again for your input.

Cerenkov.
 
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