Questions Related to the Equation of State of High-Density Matter

Astronomical data about neutron stars can be combined with laboratory nuclear data to give us a strong base from which to infer the equation of state of cold catalyzed matter beyond nuclear density. However, the nuclear and astrophysical communities are largely distinct; each has their own methods,...

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Bibliographic Details
Main Author: M. Coleman Miller
Format: Article
Language:English
Published: MDPI AG 2019-04-01
Series:Universe
Subjects:
Online Access:https://www.mdpi.com/2218-1997/5/5/100
Description
Summary:Astronomical data about neutron stars can be combined with laboratory nuclear data to give us a strong base from which to infer the equation of state of cold catalyzed matter beyond nuclear density. However, the nuclear and astrophysical communities are largely distinct; each has their own methods, which means that there is often imperfect communication between the communities regarding caveats about claimed measurements and constraints. Here we present a brief summary from one astronomer’s perspective of relevant observations of neutron stars, with warnings as appropriate, followed by a set of questions that are intended to help enhance the dialog between nuclear physicists and astrophysicists.
ISSN:2218-1997