The Physics of Neutron Stars: A New Tool for Understanding
Neutron stars and hypothetical quark stars are fascinating cosmic objects that remain largely enigmatic. Astrophysicists are making strides in understanding these stars, particularly how they form after a supernova when a massive star's core collapses under immense pressure, leading to a state dominated by neutrons. This transformation is driven by quantum processes, including the photodisintegration of iron and the beta capture mechanism, resulting in a dense neutron-rich core.
The stability of neutron stars is maintained by the Pauli exclusion principle, which prevents neutrons from occupying the same quantum state, generating the necessary pressure to counteract gravitational collapse. Despite their small size, neutron stars are incredibly dense, with a cubic centimeter weighing about a billion tons.
Recent research from Michigan State University suggests that studying mirror nuclei could enhance our understanding of neutron star physics. By measuring the properties of these nuclei, scientists hope to uncover the mechanisms governing degenerate matter, potentially leading to deeper insights into neutron stars, quark stars, and black holes.