Gravitational (hydrostatic) equilibrium is a balance between:
Group of answer choices
surface temperature and radial velocity
radiation and magnetic field
pressure and gravity
core temperature and surface temperature
heat and rotation
The correct answer is:
pressure and gravity
Gravitational (hydrostatic) equilibrium is a balance between pressure and gravity.
The correct answer is "pressure and gravity."
Gravitational (hydrostatic) equilibrium refers to the balance between the inward force of gravity and the outward pressure in a system, such as a celestial body like the Sun or a star. To understand this concept, we need to consider the forces at play.
Pressure arises from the thermal motion and collisions of particles within a system. In the context of celestial bodies, it refers to the compression of gas or other matter under the influence of gravity. Gravity, on the other hand, is the force that attracts objects towards each other, and it is responsible for holding celestial bodies together.
In gravitational equilibrium, the inward gravitational force must be balanced by the outward pressure force. If the pressure is too low, gravity causes the matter to collapse inward, resulting in a denser and hotter state. Conversely, if the pressure is too high, it pushes back against gravity and expands the object, resulting in a less dense and cooler state.
Therefore, the balance between pressure and gravity is necessary for a celestial body to maintain its structure and prevent further collapse or expansion. This equilibrium is crucial for stars to sustain their energy generation and maintain stable structures.