Star Formation

Front

What is the primary fuel used by a main sequence star?

Back

Hydrogen

Front

What are the two most abundant elements in stars?

Back

Hydrogen and helium

Front

How long can a star that has begun nuclear fusion last?

Back

Millions or even billions of years

Front

What is the main force that causes stars to form from nebula gas clouds?

Back

Gravity

Front

Why does a planetary nebula glow?

Back

The core is so hot it gives off light, even though fusion has ended.

Front

What is a nebula?

Back

A large cloud of gas and dust in space, often the birthplace of stars.

Front

What is nuclear fusion?

Back

The process by which two light atomic nuclei combine to form a heavier nucleus, releasing energy.

Front

What is a main sequence star?

Back

A star that is in the stable phase of its life cycle, fusing hydrogen into helium in its core.

Front

What happens to a star after it exhausts its hydrogen fuel?

Back

It evolves into a red giant or supergiant, depending on its mass.

Front

What is a supernova?

Back

A powerful explosion that occurs at the end of a star's life cycle, often resulting in the formation of a neutron star or black hole.