Suppose that a neutron star of 2.9 solar masses is part of a binary star system in which the other star is a normal giant star. What would happen if 1 solar mass of material were transferred onto the neutron star from its companion?
A) The neutron star would explode as a supernova.
B) The neutron degeneracy pressure inside the neutron star would increase to balance the increased gravitational force in the neutron star.
C) The increased gravitational force would transform the neutrons into quarks, and the neutron star would reestablish equilibrium as a quark star of smaller diameter.
D) The neutron star would collapse and become a black hole.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

When the mass of a neutron star exceeds the Tolman-Oppenheimer-Volkoff limit, which is about 2 to 3 solar masses, it can no longer support itself against gravitational collapse, leading to the formation of a black hole. Adding 1 solar mass to a 2.9 solar mass neutron star would push its mass well beyond this limit, resulting in its collapse into a black hole.

Suppose That a Neutron Star of 2