Vortex creep and the internal temperature of neutron stars. I - General theory

Abstract

The theory of a neutron star superfluid coupled to normal mattervia thermal creep against pinning forces is developed in some detail.General equations of motion for a pinned rotating superfluid andtheir form for vortex creep are given. Steady state creep and theway in which the system approaches the steady state are discussed.The developed formalism is applied to the postglitch relaxation ofa pulsar, and detailed models are developed which permit explicitcalculation of the postglitch response. The energy dissipation associatedwith creep and glitches is considered.