The concept of “strength” in materials refers to their ability to withstand deformation caused by external forces.
Typically, the strongest materials are the densest ones because atoms in close proximity offer greater resistance to compression. However, factors like structural properties can also influence strength, leading to exceptions like graphene, which is the strongest natural material despite not being the densest like osmium.
Some high-density states of matter, formed when massive stars collapse, are incredibly strong compared to ordinary matter. For instance, white dwarf stars have a structure composed of carbon and oxygen nuclei surrounded by electrons experiencing degeneracy pressure, preventing further compression.
However, in cases of extreme density like neutron stars, the degeneracy pressure of densely packed nuclei and free protons and neutrons overcomes electron degeneracy pressure, halting further collapse.
The material within neutron stars is about 100 trillion times denser than anything found on Earth. While the exact structure is complex and uncertain, a theorized thin layer within the star undergoes a transition from normal to ultra-dense matter, forming different shapes known as nuclear pasta.
Scientists consider this ultra-dense material to be the strongest substance in the universe, estimated to be at least 10 billion times stronger than steel.
This article addresses the question (from Colin Davids of Bridgewater): “What is the strongest material in the universe?”
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