An Introduction to Modern Astrophysics · Problem 11.8

The Interstellar Medium and Star Formation — Carroll & Ostlie

Physics — Astrophysics · sound-speed-photosphere

Problem

The gas pressure at the base of the photosphere is approximately 2×104 N m−22 \times 10^4\ \text{N m}^{-2} and the mass density is 3.2×10−4 kg m−33.2 \times 10^{-4}\ \text{kg m}^{-3}. Estimate the sound speed at the base of the photosphere, and compare your answer with the values at the top of the photosphere and averaged throughout the Sun.

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