The Cooling of Neutron Stars

Neutron stars are the densest objects known in our universe that have not collapsed in on themselves to form a singularity (a black hole). Like black holes they are formed when stars run out of nuclear fuel and radiation pressure can no longer withstand the pull of gravitational forces. This book gives you an in-depth look at how the Direct Urca process is a central element in the cooling of neutron stars after their forming, however it also provides brief introductions to neutron star physics in general, the history of neutron star physics, and pulsars - the pulsating stars that form the observational basis for neutron stars. The book also introduces the different relevant models for an equations of state for neutron stars and a chapter on hyperon matter, before it finally goes on to describe the cooling processes of neutron stars, all with the necessary mathemathical framework for an in-depth analysis.