0
$\begingroup$

I have been reading about white dwarfs, whose radius-mass relation is: $R \sim M^{-1/3}$ because of the degeneracy pressure. Could anyone provide me with a qualitative explanation of this relation? I am not capable of understanding how radius decreases as mass increases. Thanks.

Improve this question
$\endgroup$
1
  • $\begingroup$ By what mechanism can the radius increase? Assume the added material is cold and has no kinetic energy. $\endgroup$ – ProfRob Feb 26 '20 at 20:52
0
$\begingroup$

The effect is not limited to degenerate matter. Gas giant planets behave the same at mass about Jupiter and above.

Adding mass, you get two effects: you increase gravity that compresses the matter and you increase the amount of matter that piles up. Both effects are profoundly non-linear and interdependent. In some mass intervals increasing gravity overcomes the increased "piling up".

Improve this answer
$\endgroup$

Your Answer

By clicking “Post Your Answer”, you agree to our terms of service, privacy policy and cookie policy

Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged or ask your own question.