Unit 4: Gravity, Origins of the Universe, & Star Life Cycle

Front

What is a Black Hole?

Back

A Black Hole is a region in space where the gravitational pull is so strong that nothing, not even light, can escape from it. It is formed when a massive star collapses at the end of its life cycle.

Front

What evidence supports the Big Bang Theory?

Back

The universe is expanding, which is evidenced by the redshift of distant galaxies. This suggests that the universe was once concentrated in a small space and has been expanding ever since.

Front

What does it mean when a star is moving away from us?

Back

When a star is moving away from us, it shows a redshift in its light spectrum, indicating that it is receding due to the expansion of the universe.

Front

What determines the fate of a star after its life cycle?

Back

The fate of a star (whether it becomes a black dwarf, neutron star, or black hole) is determined primarily by its mass.

Front

What occurs during the protostar stage of a star's life cycle?

Back

At the beginning of the protostar stage, gravity pulls gas and dust into a spinning disk, causing matter to collide and heat up.

Front

What is a Neutron Star?

Back

A Neutron Star is the remnant core of a massive star that has exploded in a supernova. It is incredibly dense, with protons and electrons combining to form neutrons.

Front

What is a Black Dwarf?

Back

A Black Dwarf is a theoretical stellar remnant that occurs when a white dwarf has cooled down and no longer emits significant heat or light.

Front

What is the life cycle of a star?

Back

The life cycle of a star includes stages such as nebula, protostar, main sequence, red giant, and then either a supernova or a planetary nebula, leading to a neutron star, black hole, or white dwarf.

Front

What is the significance of the redshift phenomenon?

Back

Redshift is significant because it provides evidence for the expansion of the universe and supports the Big Bang Theory.

Front

What is a Nebula?

Back

A Nebula is a giant cloud of dust and gas in space, often the birthplace of stars.