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Chapter 21: Problem 28

What are the similarities between pulsating X-ray sources and X-ray bursters? What are the differences?

Short Answer

Expert verified
Pulsating X-ray sources and X-ray bursters share similarities in that they both involve neutron stars emitting X-ray radiation. The differences lie in the emission characteristics: pulsating sources emit X-rays continuously due to the star's rotation, whereas bursters emit X-rays intermittently due to nuclear explosions on the star's surface triggered by accumulated matter from a companion star.

Step by step solution

01

Define Pulsating X-ray Sources

Pulsating X-ray Sources are celestial bodies that release X-ray radiation in regular intervals. The 'pulses' come from the rotation of the spinning neutron stars that are emitting these X-rays. It can be understood as a spinning lighthouse with the emitted beams only visible when directly facing the observer.
02

Define X-ray Bursters

X-ray Bursters, unlike Pulsating X-ray Sources, do not emit X-rays regularly. They are neutron stars located in binary star systems that have an accumulation of hydrogen and helium on their surface from a companion star. As the gas builds up, it finally undergoes a nuclear fusion reaction and triggers an explosion, releasing bursts of X-rays intermittently.
03

Discuss Similarities

Both Pulsating X-ray sources and X-ray bursters involve Neutron stars as the source of X-ray emission. These X-rays are emitted due to the physical characteristics and dynamics of neutron stars like their rotation or surface activity involving external matter.
04

Discuss Differences

The main difference is in the consistency and cause of X-ray emission. Pulsating X-ray sources emit X-rays continuously with regular intervals due to the neutron star's rotation, while X-ray bursters do so intermittently due to surface nuclear explosions triggered by accumulated hydrogen and helium from a companion star.

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Most popular questions from this chapter

To determine accurately the period of a pulsar, astronomers must take into account the Earth's orbital motion about the Sun. (a) Explain why. (b) Knowing that the Earth's orbital velocity is \(30 \mathrm{~km} / \mathrm{s}\), calculate the maximum correction to a pulsar's period because of the Earth's motion. Explain why the size of the correction is greatest for pulsars located near the ecliptic.

Why do astronomers think that millisecond pulsars are very old?

Search the World Wide Web for the latest information about magnetars and soft gamma repeaters (also known as soft gamma-ray repeaters). How many soft gamma repeaters are known? Have any of these produced an intense burst since December 27,2004 ?

Does a neutron star contain only neutrons? If not, what else does it contain?

Why does an isolated pulsar rotate more slowly as time goes by?
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