Accretion physics

Question 1

The use of accretion

Answer 1

Accretion is used to produce energy. Indeed, the gravitational potential energy of accreting matter is release to heat matter and to radiate photons

Question 2

How do we obtain Eddington luminosity?

Answer 2

By equating gravitational force with radiative force.
Eddington luminosity limits the accretion rate.

Question 3

What are the different accretion regimes ?

Answer 3

Optically thick or optically thin disk (depending on whether an equilibrium between radiation and the plasma has been found)