Quark Stars

Recent research suggests that very massive neutron stars may contain cores composed of deconfined quark matter, a concept that has gained traction in astrophysics. Neutron stars typically have a core made of densely packed neutrons, but under extreme pressure, these neutrons can break down into quarks and gluons, forming what is known as quark matter. This phenomenon has been replicated in laboratory settings, such as at CERN, where high-energy collisions create a temporary quark-gluon plasma. However, the conditions within a neutron star are distinct, characterized by high pressure and lower temperatures.

A study published in Nature Communications indicates that the properties of massive neutron stars align with a model suggesting the presence of deconfined quark matter in their cores, with an estimated probability of 80%. This finding is intriguing, as it implies the existence of a new state of matter, potentially exhibiting conformal symmetry, where the matter appears similar regardless of the scale at which it is observed. This concept parallels critical points in phase transitions, such as the behavior of water at high temperatures and pressures, where the distinction between liquid and gas phases blurs. The implications of these findings could significantly enhance our understanding of the fundamental nature of matter in extreme environments.