Low density symmetry energy effects in the neutron star crust properties

Abstract

The form of the nuclear symmetry energy $E_s$ around saturation point density leads to a different crust-core transition point in the neutron star and affect the crust properties. We show that the knowledge about $E_s$ close to the saturation point is not sufficient, because the very low density behaviour is relevant. We also claim that crust properties are strongly influenced by the very high density behavior of $E_s$, so in order to conclude about the form of low density part of the symmetry energy one must isolate properly the high density part.