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

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the maximum masses of white dwarf stars and neutron stars, specifically exploring the Chandrasekhar limit for white dwarfs and the Tolman–Oppenheimer–Volkoff (TOV) limit for neutron stars. The conversation includes inquiries about the implications of these limits in astrophysical events.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • Cerenkov expresses interest in the maximum masses of white dwarfs and neutron stars, referencing the Chandrasekhar limit.
  • Drakkith identifies the TOV limit as approximately 2.17 solar masses for non-rotating, cold neutron stars.
  • Cerenkov questions the relevance of the TOV limit to future astrophysical events, citing external articles on neutron stars and black holes.
  • A later reply from Cerenkov indicates uncertainty about the implications of the TOV limit, admitting a lack of familiarity with detailed aspects of the topic.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the implications of the TOV limit for future events, and there remains uncertainty regarding the details of the topic.

Contextual Notes

There are limitations in the discussion regarding the depth of knowledge on the implications of the TOV limit and its application to specific astrophysical scenarios.

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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