Life Cycle of a Star

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Questions and Answers

What is the primary factor that determines whether a star will eventually become a white dwarf or a black hole?

The star's surface temperature during its main sequence phase.
The star's rotational velocity.
The presence of binary companions.
The star's initial mass. (correct)

Which of the following sequences accurately describes the evolutionary path of a sun-like star?

Stellar Nebula → Average Star → Red Supergiant → Supernova → Black Hole
Stellar Nebula → Massive Star → Red Giant → Supernova → Black Hole
Stellar Nebula → Average Star → Red Giant → Planetary Nebula → White Dwarf (correct)
Stellar Nebula → Red Supergiant → Supernova → Neutron Star

What triggers the transition of a massive star into a supernova?

The accumulation of helium in the core, leading to a helium flash.
The exhaustion of hydrogen fuel in the core, causing a rapid contraction.
The sudden fusion of carbon into heavier elements in the core.
The collapse of the iron core, leading to a catastrophic rebound. (correct)

Which of the following is the correct order of stellar remnants, ranked from least to most massive?

White Dwarf, Neutron Star, Black Hole (A) Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary difference in the final stages of an average star compared to a massive star?

Average stars form planetary nebulas and white dwarfs, while massive stars undergo supernova explosions, potentially forming neutron stars or black holes. (D) Signup and view all the answers

In the context of stellar evolution, what is the significance of a 'planetary nebula'?

It is the ejected outer layers of a dying average star, surrounding a white dwarf. (A) Signup and view all the answers

What causes a red giant star to increase dramatically in size compared to its main sequence stage?

Hydrogen fusion in a shell surrounding an inert helium core. (B) Signup and view all the answers

How does the formation of a black hole differ from the formation of a neutron star following a supernova?

Black holes result from the complete collapse of the core against gravity, while neutron stars are supported by neutron degeneracy pressure. (B) Signup and view all the answers

What is the key difference between a red giant and a red supergiant star?

Red supergiants are more massive and luminous than red giants. (C) Signup and view all the answers

What event marks the 'birth' of a star?

The onset of hydrogen fusion in the core. (D) Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Stellar Nebula

A cloud of gas and dust in space, where stars are born.

Red Giant

The phase after the main sequence, star expands and cools.