The investigation into ‘starquakes’—akin to earthquakes but occurring in stars—holds the promise of enhancing our understanding of neutron stars and, consequently, broadening our comprehension of the universe while also benefiting daily life.
The exploration of ‘starquakes’ (similar to earthquakes, but occurring within stars) offers the potential for crucial new insights into the characteristics of neutron stars (the remnants left behind after massive stars collapse), as revealed by new research spearheaded by the University of Bath in the UK.
Such research could challenge our traditional methods of studying nuclear matter, which can have significant repercussions for both nuclear physics and astronomy. In the long run, this might also influence fields like health, security, and energy.
The importance of studying asteroseismology—the analysis of these stellar vibrations and eruptions—has been highlighted by a collaborative effort from a global team of physicists, including Dr. David Tsang and Dr. Duncan Neill from Bath’s Department of Physics, in conjunction with colleagues from Texas A&M and the University of Ohio.
The findings of this team, published in the respected journal Physical Review C, explore how asteroseismology within neutron stars can validate theories surrounding nuclear matter.
The researchers discovered that observing these starquakes from Earth with advanced telescopes yields valuable insights into the inner workings of neutron stars. This knowledge assists in examining and refining a theory known as Chiral Effective Field Theory, which is vital for enhancing our grasp of the universe and improving life on Earth.
A primary goal for modern nuclear scientists is to gain a more in-depth understanding of nuclear matter, including protons and neutrons. This improved understanding is essential for expanding their knowledge of the universe’s fundamental elements and the forces that control them.
“Our discoveries are set to enrich, or even transform, the instruments used by nuclear physicists, fostering a closer relationship between astronomy and nuclear physics,” stated lead author and postdoctoral researcher Dr. Neill. “These outcomes underscore the potential significance that astronomical data could have for nuclear physics, creating connections between fields that have typically been kept apart.”
By promoting advancements in nuclear theory, the insights from this research might ultimately yield benefits in health, security, and energy in the following ways:
- Health: By improving techniques such as radiation therapy and diagnostic imaging
- National Security: By ensuring safe and secure management and development of nuclear weapons
- Nuclear Energy: By assisting in the advancement of safe and efficient nuclear energy solutions, leading to enhancements in nuclear reactors and potentially new energy avenues
The importance of starquakes in neutron stars
Neutron stars are the remnants of massive stars that have expended all their fuel. These celestial bodies collapse under immense gravitational pressure, resulting in incredibly dense objects that contain the densest form of matter in the universe.
These extreme conditions allow for unique insights into the fundamental properties of matter that cannot be replicated through experiments conducted on Earth.
Currently, one of the most recognized methods for modeling nuclear matter in extreme environments is called ‘Chiral Effective Field Theory.’ As with any scientific theory, it is crucial to evaluate its predictions and ensure consistency with actual physical phenomena.
However, accurately measuring neutron stars, which are situated at great distances, presents significant challenges. This often leads scientists to focus on broad, overarching characteristics rather than intricate details, making it difficult to conduct thorough tests of specific scientific theories regarding neutron stars.
“We suggest that, in the not-so-distant future, asteroseismology could provide detailed insights into the internal structure of neutron stars, allowing us to validate theories like Chiral Effective Field Theory,” commented Dr. David Tsang, co-author of the study.
Duncan Neill further explained: “The asteroseismic techniques we advocate utilize existing instruments, thereby providing new applications for operational telescopes and enhancing the capabilities of nuclear physics without necessitating costly new technologies.”
“As this research progresses, we may leverage asteroseismology to identify the properties of matter at varying densities within neutron stars, allowing astronomy to play a pivotal role in guiding the advancement of new nuclear physics methodologies. We are excited to expand our research in asteroseismology at Bath and discover the full extent of insights it can provide.”
The research team behind this study included Dr. Christian Drischler from Ohio University and FRIB at Michigan State University, Dr. Jeremy Holt from Texas A&M University, College Station, and Dr. William Newton from Texas A&M University-Commerce.
