Constraining dense matter physics using f-mode oscillations in neutron stars

TL;DR

This study explores how f-mode oscillations in neutron stars can be used to constrain the dense matter equation of state, highlighting the impact of nuclear parameters and potential for future astrophysical measurements.

Contribution

First systematic investigation of nuclear saturation parameters' effects on neutron star f-mode oscillations, emphasizing the role of effective nucleon mass.

Findings

Uncertainty in effective nucleon mass significantly affects f-mode frequencies.

Correlations between f-mode frequencies and astrophysical observables are identified.

Future detections could constrain nuclear empirical parameters and dense matter behavior.

Abstract

In this undergraduate project, f-mode oscillations in neutron stars are used to constrain the equation of state of dense matter. For the first time, a systematic investigation of the role of nuclear saturation parameters on the mode oscillations is performed. It is found that the uncertainty in the determination of effective nucleon mass plays the most significant role in controlling the f-mode frequencies. Correlations of the frequencies with astrophysical observables relevant for asteroseismology are also investigated. Future detection of f-mode frequencies could then provide a unique way of constraining nuclear empirical parameters and therefore the behaviour of dense matter.