Mixed-phase induced core-quakes and the changes in neutron star parameters

Abstract

We present approximate formulae describing the changes in neutron star parameters caused by the first-order phase transition to an ``exotic'' state (pion or kaon condensate, quark matter) resulting in formation of a mixed-phase core. The analytical formulae for the changes in radius, moment of inertia and the amount of energy released during the core-quake are derived using the theory of linear response of stellar structure to the core transformation. Numerical coefficients in these formulae are obtained for two realistic EOSs of dense matter. The problem of nucleation of the exotic phase as well as possible astrophysical scenarios leading to a core-quake phenomenon is also discussed.