What is theoretical minimum mass of neutronium?

In summary, the lowest mass required for neutronium to remain stable is about 1.5 solar masses and it is not possible to create a stable neutronium ball with a lower mass, regardless of its size.
  • #1
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Not withstanding the fact that most neutronium is produced in neutron stars, what is the lowest mass required to keep neutronium stable? I've heard it could be as low as 0.1 solar masses. Could it be even smaller than that? Can you make an Earth mass neutronium ball and have it stay stable due to self-gravitation? Could you make a Moon-mass one? How about an asteroid-mass one?
 
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  • #2
No, neutronium cannot be made with a mass as low as 0.1 solar masses and remain stable due to self-gravitation. The lowest mass required for neutronium to remain stable is about 1.5 solar masses, which is considered the minimum mass needed for a neutron star to exist. Neutron stars are composed of an extremely dense form of matter known as neutronium, which is held together by its own gravitational force. Neutronium is so dense that it does not behave like any of the normal forms of matter we are familiar with, and it requires a very large amount of mass to remain stable. As such, it is impossible to make an Earth-mass, Moon-mass, or even an asteroid-mass neutronium ball and have it stay stable due to self-gravitation.
 

1. What is neutronium?

Neutronium is a hypothetical substance composed entirely of neutrons, the subatomic particles found in the nucleus of an atom. It is believed to be the densest form of matter in the universe.

2. Why is the theoretical minimum mass of neutronium important?

The theoretical minimum mass of neutronium is important because it helps scientists understand the fundamental properties of matter and explore the limits of physics. It also has implications for the study of neutron stars and black holes.

3. How is the theoretical minimum mass of neutronium calculated?

The theoretical minimum mass of neutronium is calculated using the equations of general relativity and quantum mechanics. It takes into account the mass of a neutron, the gravitational constant, and the speed of light.

4. Is the theoretical minimum mass of neutronium a fixed value?

Yes, the theoretical minimum mass of neutronium is a fixed value based on the fundamental properties of matter. However, it is subject to change if there are advancements in our understanding of physics.

5. Can the theoretical minimum mass of neutronium be measured?

No, the theoretical minimum mass of neutronium cannot be measured directly as it is a hypothetical concept. However, scientists can use calculations and models to estimate its value and make predictions about its properties.

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