ComputerAnimationofAccretionofNeutronStars.docVIP

Computer Animation of Accretion of Neutron Stars Wang Kei So, Ho Yin Law, Hiu Pan Tang S.K.H Tsang Shiu Tim Secondary School Abstract In the research, binary systems consisting of neutron star were studied. After reviewing the basic knowledge of neutron stars, we wrote a computer program to animate and visualize the accretion process on a two-dimensional plane. 1. Introduction A neutron star can exist in a binary star system. Since the neutron star has a very high density, its gravitational attraction on its companion star is so strong. Matter from the companion star is lost by being attracted to the neutron star. This phenomenon is called accretion. During accretion, the normal companion star is distorted by the neutron star’s gravity and the fluid material on it is absorbed by the neutron star. Before of the energy of the fluid material is converted to radiation energy emitted from the neutron star, these materials will loop around the neutron star to form an accretion disc, until most of the material is absorbed by the normal companion star. 2. Model of a Binary System Containing a Neutron Star and a Red Giant In order to make the animation more convincing, we have made reference to the binary star system ‘Hercules X-1’, which was observed to contain a neutron star and its companion red giant. We have made use of its data in our computer animation. As shown in the figure, the distances of the neutron star and red giant from the centre of mass satisfy the equations I0 + I1 = I and m0I0 = m1I1. Hence they are given by and For the neutron star and red giant to exhibit circular motion, their velocities are given by Newton’s 2nd law, and . Hence and . Choosing the centre of mass as the origin, the positions are Neutron star: (0, –I0). Red giant: (0, I1). The velocities are Neutron star: (v0, 0). Red Giant: (–v1, 0). 3. Assumptions and theory applied on the model of accretion 1. The red giant is made up of a fluid of par