Contrast the internal structures and properties of neutron stars with white dwarf and main sequence stars
Specifically, what processes in each balance the inward pull of gravity; what are their energy sources; and what are their sizes, densities, and temperatures?
Main sequence: Internal structure is hydrogen fusing to helium, which provides energy. Outward heat pressure balances gravity. Size: around 106 km. Density: 103 kg/m3. Temperature: 107 K in core, 6000 K at surface.
White dwarf: Internal structure is ultra-compressed carbon; energy from residual heat; gravity balanced by electron degeneracy; Size: 104 km; Density: 109 kg/m3; Temperature: 5 × 104 K at surface.
Neutron star: Internal structure is tight-packed neutrons; gravity balanced by neutron degeneracy; energy from rotational kinetic energy and residual heat; Size: 10 km; Density: 1018 kg/m3; Temperature: unknown.
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Describe the distance and composition of the Alpha Centauri system
What will be an ideal response?
As global warming raises the moisture content in our atmosphere, storms will
A) become less numerous and less severe B) disappear all together C) become less numerous but more severe D) become more numerous and severe
Why must lander probes on Mars be sterilized before launch?
A) to prevent terrestrial microbes hitching a ride on the probe and contaminating the Martian surface B) to prevent terrestrial microbes destroying the electronics in the probe during its passage to Mars C) to prevent Martian dust from building up on the probe on the surface D) to prevent Martian microbes from contaminating the lander probe
A 500-eV electron and a 300-eV electron trapped in a uniform magnetic field move in circular paths in a plane perpendicular to the magnetic field. What is the ratio of the radii of their orbits?
a. 2.8 b. 1.7 c. 1.3 d. 4.0 e. 1.0