Stars

Front

What is nuclear fusion in stars?

Back

Nuclear fusion in stars is the process where two hydrogen atoms combine to form helium, releasing energy in the process.

Front

What is the life cycle of a low mass star?

Back

The life cycle of a low mass star is: Main Sequence Star → Red Giant → Planetary Nebula → White Dwarf.

Front

What is a supernova?

Back

A supernova is the explosion of a massive star at the end of its life cycle, resulting in a dramatic increase in brightness.

Front

What type of star can become a black hole?

Back

A black hole starts as a high mass star that has undergone gravitational collapse.

Front

Can all stars end as a white dwarf?

Back

No, not all stars end as a white dwarf; only low to intermediate mass stars do.

Front

What is a red giant?

Back

A red giant is a late stage in the life cycle of a star where it expands and cools after exhausting its hydrogen fuel.

Front

What is a planetary nebula?

Back

A planetary nebula is a shell of gas ejected from a low mass star during the later stages of its evolution.

Front

What is the difference between a neutron star and a black hole?

Back

A neutron star is the remnant of a supernova explosion, composed mostly of neutrons, while a black hole is a region of space where gravity is so strong that nothing can escape from it.

Front

What is the main sequence phase of a star?

Back

The main sequence phase is the longest stage in a star's life where it fuses hydrogen into helium in its core.

Front

What happens to a star after it becomes a red supergiant?

Back

After becoming a red supergiant, a massive star may undergo a supernova explosion.