Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
solar-mass
Noun
/ˈsoʊ.lər mæs/
Definition
A unit of mass used in astronomy, equivalent to the mass of the Sun, which is approximately 1.989 x 10^30 kilograms.
Examples
- The star has a mass of three solar-masses, making it significantly larger than the Sun.
- Scientists estimate that the black hole at the center of the galaxy has a mass of about four million solar-masses.
- When discussing star formation, astronomers often use solar-mass to express the mass of protostars.
Meaning
The term solar-mass refers to a standard measure used to compare the mass of other celestial bodies, like stars and galaxies, to the mass of our Sun.
Synonyms
- Mass of the Sun
- Solar weight
- Solar unit
