Theoretical Investigations of the Equation of State for Stellar Interiors

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AST-9987391Dappen, WernerThe PI proposes to develop a unified equation of state for stellar interior computations. Such models are the foundation of stellar astronomy, and they provide the basis for understanding the structure of normal stars, as well as models for later stages of stellar evolution. The main goal of the project is to reconcile inconsistencies that currently exist between two competing approaches to determining the interior structure of the Sun. The PIs will use direct comparisons between the their interior models and GONG solar oscillation data. This should provide firm tests of the derived the equation of state, at least in low density regions. The results may help improve the determination of the Sun's helium abundance, a value that has substantial impact on stellar models in general and on the cosmological origins of helium. They also have the potential to improve model calculations for other stellar evolutionary stages, such as low density giant stars to high density white dwarf stars.Funding for this project was provided by the NSF program for Stellar Astronomy & Astrophysics (AST/SAA).***