IISc study shows white dwarfs can exceed 1.4 solar mass Chandrasekhar limit
GS3Economy · S&T · Environment · Security· Space technology (ISRO, missions)· Prelims·
Stellar evolution and degenerate matter: a relevant GS3 Science & Technology topic.
Why in news
Researchers at the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) published a study in The Astrophysical Journal Letters showing that magnetized carbon-oxygen white dwarfs can exceed the 1.4 solar mass Chandrasekhar limit.
Background
The study used a modified STARS code from the University of Cambridge to simulate stellar evolution. It found that strong magnetic fields allow white dwarfs to reach up to 2.4 times the mass of the Sun.
Facts for Prelims
- S&TChandrasekhar limit: The maximum mass of a stable white dwarf star is approximately 1.4 solar masses.
- FactIISc study: Magnetized carbon-oxygen white dwarfs can reach 2.4 times the mass of the Sun.
- BodySTARS code: A simulation tool used by the University of Cambridge and IISc for stellar modeling.
Prelims practice question
What is the approximate maximum mass of a stable white dwarf star according to the Chandrasekhar limit?
- (a)1.4 solar masses
- (b)0.8 solar masses
- (c)3.5 solar masses
- (d)2.4 solar masses
Show answer
Answer: (a) 1.4 solar masses — The Chandrasekhar limit defines the maximum mass of a stable white dwarf star as approximately 1.4 solar masses.
For Mains
Q. Discuss how advancements in computational astrophysics and stellar modeling are reshaping our understanding of stellar evolution and the limits of degenerate matter.
Dimensions to cover in your answer
- Computational modeling: Use of modified STARS code to simulate complex magnetic field interactions in stellar evolution
- Astrophysical theory: Re-evaluating the Chandrasekhar limit in the context of high-intensity magnetic fields
Keywords: stellar evolution · white dwarfs · Chandrasekhar limit · magnetized stars · computational astrophysics
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This note is generated automatically from SatyaDheesh's news feed and mapped to the UPSC CSE syllabus. Check facts against the original report or PIB before using them in an answer.