White dwarfs may exceed Chandrasekhar limit with strong magnetic fields
The study suggests that white dwarfs with strong magnetic fields may exceed the Chandrasekhar limit. This finding is based on simulations and theoretical models.
This challenges existing models of white dwarf mass limits and requires further observational confirmation.
Chandrasekhar limit context
The Chandrasekhar limit is approximately 1.4 solar masses for non-magnetized, non-rotating white dwarfs.
Magnetic field impact
Strong magnetic fields may alter the internal structure of white dwarfs, allowing them to support more mass.
Common questions
What is the Chandrasekhar limit?
It is the maximum mass a white dwarf can have before collapsing into a neutron star or black hole, typically around 1.4 times the mass of the Sun.
How do magnetic fields affect white dwarf mass limits?
Strong magnetic fields may increase the maximum mass by altering the star's internal pressure and density distribution.
Sources
- Strong magnetic fields could allow white dwarfs to grow beyond the Chandrasekhar limit Phys.org · phys.org
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