March 28, 2024

Researchers have discovered a new type of substance inside neutron stars.

Researchers have discovered a new type of substance inside neutron stars.

Astrophysicists have found convincing evidence of the presence of exotic quark matter in the nuclei of major neutron stars.

Matter habitual for us consists of atoms,which include nuclei of protons and neutrons surrounded by electrons. However, inside neutron stars, after collapse, matter shrinks to an incredibly dense state in which all neutrons and protons shrink so much that it actually creates one giant nucleus.

A team of researchers from the University of Helsinki has found evidence thatinside massive neutron stars, matter cantake on an even more exotic state called quark matter. Moreover, even protons and neutrons cease to exist, as they merge into a single whole.

Combining the latest theoretical achievementsParticle physics and nuclear physics with astrophysical measurements, scientists were able to determine the characteristics of matter inside the remains of the stars. Calculations showed that in some neutron stars the core of quark matter can exceed half their diameter.

However, according to the Finns themselves, stillthere is a small probability that all neutron stars consist only of nuclear matter, but in this case it should have very peculiar properties. For example, the speed of sound propagation in it will have to reach the speed of light.

Previously, we also reported that scientists have discovered why photons from other galaxies do not reach Earth.

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