How are neutron stars formed?

Neutron stars are formed from the remnants of supernova explosions.

When a massive star runs out of fuel, it can no longer produce the energy needed to counteract the force of gravity. The core collapses inwards, causing a massive explosion known as a supernova. The outer layers of the star are blown away, leaving behind a dense core known as a neutron star.

Neutron stars are incredibly dense, with a mass greater than that of the Sun packed into a sphere just a few kilometres across. This is because the core of the star is made up of neutrons, which are tightly packed together. The intense gravitational field of a neutron star is strong enough to cause the distortion of spacetime, and can even bend light.

Neutron stars are also known for their rapid rotation, with some neutron stars spinning hundreds of times per second. This is due to the conservation of angular momentum during the collapse of the star's core. As the core collapses, it spins faster and faster, like a figure skater pulling in their arms.

In summary, neutron stars are formed from the remnants of supernova explosions. These incredibly dense objects are made up of tightly packed neutrons, and are known for their intense gravitational fields and rapid rotation.