Simulating the Structure and Stability of Relativistic Neutron Stars

Project Description:

The groundbreaking detections of gravitational waves from neutron star mergers have underscored the significance of constructing and analyzing relativistic neutron star models to better understand the dynamics of extreme astrophysical phenomena. This project will focus on the construction and stability analysis of relativistic neutron star models within General Relativity and modified gravity theories. The study involves formulating and solving the equations governing the structure of spherically symmetric, self-gravitating fluids in equilibrium. Stability analysis will be carried out using perturbative methods, specifically by examining the eigenmodes of radial oscillations to determine the conditions under which a star remains dynamically stable under small perturbations. This work has applications in numerical relativity, particularly relativistic hydrodynamics.

Research Area:

Astrophysics

Project Level:

Masters

This Project Is Offered At The Following Node(s):

(UCT)(UKZN)(NWU)

Special Requirements:

The project requires familiarity with differential equations and proficiency in programming (in any language of your choice). These tools are essential as the analysis involves solving coupled nonlinear equations numerically.