GCSE Space Physics Quiz

What is the final stage in the life cycle of a star like the Sun before it becomes a white dwarf?

• It becomes a black hole

• It turns into a red giant

• It explodes in a supernova

• It becomes a black dwarf

What happens when a red giant gets rid of its outer layers of dust and gas?

• It turns into a supernova

• It becomes a black hole

• It becomes a white dwarf

• It becomes a neutron star

What is the force that keeps planets orbiting the Sun and the Moon orbiting Earth?

• Electromagnetic force

• Centrifugal force

• Gravity

• Nuclear force

Tags

NGSS.HS-ESS1-4

NGSS.HS-PS2-4

According to the Big Bang theory, how long ago did the universe begin to expand?

• 13.7 billion years ago

• 4.6 billion years ago

• 9.8 billion years ago

• 20 billion years ago

Tags

NGSS.HS-ESS1-2

What is the main sequence star stage in the life cycle of a star?

• The initial formation of a star from a nebula

• The stage where a star explodes into a supernova

• The stable phase where gravity and fusion pressure are balanced

• The final stage where a star becomes a black hole

Tags

NGSS.HS-ESS1-3

What is a black dwarf?

• A star that has exploded into a supernova

• A dense star composed mainly of neutrons

• A white dwarf that has cooled down and no longer emits light

• A large star that has collapsed into a point of infinite density

What is the fuel for nuclear fusion in small stars, like the Sun?

• Helium

• Hydrogen

• Carbon

• Oxygen

Tags

NGSS.HS-ESS1-1

NGSS.HS-PS1-8

What type of galaxy is the Milky Way?

• Elliptical Galaxy

• Spiral Galaxy

• Irregular Galaxy

• Lenticular Galaxy

What element is formed in the core of a star from fusion of hydrogen?

• Helium

• Oxygen

• Carbon

• Iron

Tags

NGSS.HS-ESS1-1

NGSS.HS-ESS1-3

NGSS.HS-PS1-8

What phenomenon is postulated to explain the fact that there is not enough mass visible in galaxies to stop stars from being flung out into inter-galactic space?

• Dark matter

• Black holes

• Dark energy

• Supernovae