H-R Diagram Flashcard 8th

Front

What is the H-R Diagram?

Back

The Hertzsprung-Russell Diagram (H-R Diagram) is a scatter plot of stars showing the relationship between their absolute magnitudes or luminosities versus their stellar classifications or effective temperatures.

Front

What does the position of a star on the H-R Diagram indicate?

Back

The position of a star on the H-R Diagram indicates its temperature, luminosity, and stage in its life cycle.

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What is luminosity?

Back

Luminosity is the amount of energy a star emits per unit of time, often measured in watts.

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What color are cooler stars?

Back

Cooler stars are typically red in color.

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What color are hotter stars?

Back

Hotter stars are typically blue or white in color.

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What is a main sequence star?

Back

A main sequence star is a star that is in the stable phase of its life cycle, where it fuses hydrogen into helium in its core.

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What is a supergiant star?

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A supergiant star is a very large star that is more luminous than a giant star, often found at the upper end of the H-R Diagram.

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What is a white dwarf star?

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A white dwarf star is a small, dense star that is the remnant of a star that has exhausted its nuclear fuel and shed its outer layers.

Front

What is the significance of the color of a star?

Back

The color of a star indicates its temperature; blue stars are the hottest, while red stars are the coolest.

Front

What type of star is our Sun classified as?

Back

Our Sun is classified as a yellow main sequence star.