What force may exceed thermal pressure in magnetars due to immense magnetic fields?
Answer
Magnetic pressure ($P_B \propto B^2$)
A key insight gained from studying magnetars is the overwhelming dominance of magnetic forces within their structure. For these objects, the magnetic pressure, quantified as being proportional to the square of the magnetic field strength ($P_B \propto B^2$), can reach intensities that are comparable to, or even surpass, the thermal pressure and the gravitational forces that normally work to hold a stellar body together. This dominance means the configuration and tension of the magnetic field lines dictate the star's mechanics, causing stress that can physically rip apart the material of the star's surface, leading to events like starquakes.
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