Millisecond pulsars

Definition

Millisecond pulsars are neutron stars that rotate hundreds of times per second and emit beams of electromagnetic radiation. They typically form in binary star systems where mass transfer from a companion star spins up the pulsar to incredibly high speeds.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Millisecond pulsars can rotate at rates exceeding 700 times per second.
2. They are often found in binary systems, where they gain angular momentum from a companion star.
3. The discovery of millisecond pulsars has provided insights into the end stages of stellar evolution.
4. They are used by astronomers as precise cosmic clocks due to their stable rotational periods.
5. Observations of millisecond pulsars have contributed to the study of gravitational waves.

Review Questions

• What process is responsible for the high rotation speed of millisecond pulsars?
• Why are millisecond pulsars considered important for studying stellar evolution?
• How do millisecond pulsars serve as cosmic clocks?

Related terms

Neutron Star: A dense stellar remnant left after a supernova explosion composed almost entirely of neutrons.

Binary Star System: A system where two stars orbit around their common center of mass due to mutual gravitational attraction.

Gravitational Waves: Ripples in spacetime caused by accelerating massive objects, such as merging neutron stars or black holes.