High Mass Stars

Front

What are the two opposing forces that keep stars between collapsing and inflating?

Back

Gravity and the pressure of hot gases.

Front

What happens when helium fusion begins in a massive, blue, main sequence star?

Back

It becomes a red super giant.

Front

What subatomic particles are generated in vast numbers during the collapse of a star's core?

Back

Neutrinos.

Front

At what speed do the expanding gases blast outward during a supernova?

Back

10% of the speed of light.

Front

Which element removes energy from a star's core and absorbs electrons?

Back

Iron.

Front

What is the life cycle of a high mass star?

Back

High mass stars go through stages: main sequence, red supergiant, supernova, and potentially a black hole or neutron star.

Front

What is a supernova?

Back

A supernova is a powerful and luminous explosion of a star, marking the end of its life cycle.

Front

What role does gravity play in the life of a star?

Back

Gravity pulls matter together, causing the star to collapse and initiate nuclear fusion.

Front

What is the significance of electron degeneracy pressure in stars?

Back

Electron degeneracy pressure counteracts gravitational collapse in white dwarfs.

Front

How does a red super giant differ from a blue giant?

Back

A red super giant is cooler and larger than a blue giant, which is hotter and more massive.