What is the pressure gradient towards the centre of a large planet?

In summary, as the gravitational field falls to zero at the center of a large body, the pressure curve reaches its maximum due to the weight of the overlying material. The curve and formula for this pressure can be calculated using the equations P=∫ρgdr, g=Gm/r2, and m=∫4πr2ρdr. High temperatures do not affect this pressure, but the radial distribution of density does.
  • #1
kevindin
10
0
Given that the gravitational field falls to zero at the centre of a large body (e.g. the earth), what happens to the pressure curve? (Assuming no effects due to high temperature.) Does it ease off too? What would the curve look like and what would the formula be?
 
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  • #2
kevindin said:
Given that the gravitational field falls to zero at the centre of a large body (e.g. the earth), what happens to the pressure curve?

It reaches its maximum, as the pressure is the result of the weight of the overlying material.

kevindin said:
What would the curve look like and what would the formula be?

That I can't answer. Perhaps someone here can provide the math.
 
  • Like
Likes BillTre
  • #3
Simple rules
Pressure is
P=∫ρgdr
Where g is
g=Gm/r2
and
m=∫4πr2ρdr
Hm, cannot figure out an easy way to place the bounds on your ∫.
There would be no effects due to high temperature. What matters is the radial distribution of ρ.
 
  • #4
snorkack said:
There would be no effects due to high temperature. What matters is the radial distribution of ρ.

High temperatures have an effect on the radial distribution of ρ.
 
  • #5
Drakkith said:
It reaches its maximum, as the pressure is the result of the weight of the overlying material.

As you approach the center, less and less mass is added to the already overlying material. Hence the pressure gradient will be at its minimum.
 

Related to What is the pressure gradient towards the centre of a large planet?

1. What is pressure gradient?

Pressure gradient is the change in pressure over a certain distance or area. In the context of a large planet, it refers to the change in pressure as you move towards the center of the planet.

2. How does the pressure gradient change towards the center of a large planet?

The pressure gradient towards the center of a large planet increases. This is because the weight of the overlying layers of the planet increases as you move towards the center, causing an increase in pressure.

3. What factors affect the pressure gradient towards the center of a large planet?

The pressure gradient towards the center of a large planet is affected by the planet's mass, density, and radius. The greater the mass and density of the planet, and the smaller the radius, the higher the pressure gradient will be towards the center.

4. How does the pressure gradient towards the center of a large planet affect its internal structure?

The pressure gradient towards the center of a large planet plays a crucial role in determining its internal structure. The high pressure towards the center can cause the planet's materials to compress, leading to the formation of a solid core surrounded by layers of liquid and gas.

5. Can the pressure gradient towards the center of a large planet be measured?

Yes, the pressure gradient towards the center of a large planet can be measured using various techniques such as seismic studies, which measure the propagation of seismic waves through the planet's interior, or by analyzing the planet's gravitational field. These measurements can provide valuable information about the planet's composition and internal structure.

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