Super-Dense Matter at Super- Strong Magnetic Fields

TL;DR

This paper reviews the properties of super-dense quark matter in neutron star cores, especially under super-strong magnetic fields, and explores how instabilities can generate magnetic fields spontaneously.

Contribution

It provides a comprehensive review of quark matter phases at high densities with magnetic fields and discusses mechanisms for spontaneous magnetic field generation.

Findings

Different phases of quark matter under strong magnetic fields

Mechanisms of magnetic field generation via Meissner instability

Implications for neutron star magnetic properties

Abstract

Our Universe is full of regions where extreme physical conditions are realized. A most intriguing case is the super-dense core of neutron stars, some of which also have super-strong magnetic fields, hence called magnetars. In this paper we review the current understanding of the physical properties of the different phases of quark matter at very high densities in the presence of large magnetic fields. We also discuss how the Meissner instability produced at moderate densities by a pairing stress due to the medium neutrality and $\beta$-equilibrium constraints can lead to the spontaneous generation of a magnetic field.