This topic contains a solution. Click here to go to the answer

Author Question: Why are millisecond pulsars often found in binary systems with small red- or brown-dwarf companions? ... (Read 108 times)

futuristic

  • Hero Member
  • *****
  • Posts: 638
Why are millisecond pulsars often found in binary systems with small red- or brown-dwarf companions?
 
  What will be an ideal response?

Question 2

Newtonian gravity is often called universal mutual gravitation because every particle with mass in the Universe must attract every other particle.
 
  a. True
  b. False
  Indicate whether the statement is true or false



Related Topics

Need homework help now?

Ask unlimited questions for free

Ask a Question
Marked as best answer by a Subject Expert

Ahnyah

  • Sr. Member
  • ****
  • Posts: 336
Answer to Question 1

A normal pulsar has a period of a few tenths of a second to a few seconds. The general physics controlling pulsars suggest that they should slow down over time to longer periods.

Millisecond pulsars have a period of about 1/1000th of a second, and are spinning much faster than normal pulsars. Theory cannot explain the formation of such a rapid pulsar through normal means. The best explanation is that mass transferred to the surface of the pulsar has increased its angular momentum, and rotation rate.

These pulsars are found in binary systems that have a small radius, indicating that they are very old. In order to speed up the pulsars to such high speeds, they must have absorbed a large amount of mass. The companions of these binary millisecond pulsars are very small, in the red dwarf or brown dwarf range.

The conclusion is that the millisecond pulsar has absorbed almost all of the mass of a main sequence star, leaving behind a very small remnant companion which may eventually be evaporated.

Answer to Question 2

True





 

Did you know?

The Romans did not use numerals to indicate fractions but instead used words to indicate parts of a whole.

Did you know?

Individuals are never “cured” of addictions. Instead, they learn how to manage their disease to lead healthy, balanced lives.

Did you know?

There are more bacteria in your mouth than there are people in the world.

Did you know?

Throughout history, plants containing cardiac steroids have been used as heart drugs and as poisons (e.g., in arrows used in combat), emetics, and diuretics.

Did you know?

Between 1999 and 2012, American adults with high total cholesterol decreased from 18.3% to 12.9%

For a complete list of videos, visit our video library