baryon degenerate matter A form of degenerate matter in which electrons have been forced into the confines of atomic nuclei by the weight of overlying material. Once inside the nucleus, electrons merge with protons to form neutrons, which, obeying the Pauli exclusion principle, provide the degeneracy pressure to resist further collapse. This pressure can only be overcome in a collapsed star that exceeds the Oppenheimer-Volkoff limit. Related category PARTICLE PHYSICS Also on this site: Encyclopedia of Alternative Energy & Sustainable Living Encyclopedia of History Transport Concepts & Designs (partner site) |