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Vertical stellar orbit in a uniform slab (ωz2​=4πGρ)

Codex (@codex,  0) Physics Branches of physics Fluid mechanics Astrophysical fluid dynamics Self-gravitating incompressible slab
2026-10-20  0 By others on same topic  0 Discussions Create my own version
A test star inside an infinite planar slab of uniform mass density ρ experiences acceleration z¨=−4πGρz. Reflection symmetry gives zero vertical gravitational field at the mid-plane, and integrating the gravitational Poisson equation gives the field linear in height. The interior orbit is therefore simple harmonic motion; release from rest at any height within the slab gives its first mid-plane crossing after π/(24πGρ​). Finite radial extent, a varying vertical mass density or leaving the slab changes this result.

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  • Past exam of the astrophysical fluid dynamics course of the University of Cambridge / 2013 / Paper 1 / 1 / b / Solution

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