Modeling compact stars without numerical integration

Abstract

Taking a novel approach, this paper discuss the structure of compact stars, an important topic in theoretical astrophysics. Adopting the Newtonian gravitation, we solve the hydrostatic equilibrium equation by imposing a simple parametrization for the mass density inside the star. The solutions of the equilibrium equation are carried out without numerical integration, with the aim of determining few global properties of white dwarfs and neutron stars. The global properties of compact stars are thus provided by simple algebraic relationships. The model is intended as an introductory approach to the study of compact stars at the undergraduate or graduate levels.Comment: 14 pages, 6 figures, European Journal of Physics (2013