Low mass stars Flashcards
(6 cards)
What stars are classified as low mass?
0.5-10 solar masses
What happens as energy released from nuclear fusion decreases?
energy released from nuclear fusion decreases. temperature decreases, decrease in radiation and gas pressure
What is the consequence of decrease in pressure?
core collapses
Outer layer of the star is released from the core, creating a red giant.
Surface temp of star decreases
layers are pushed a certain distance away causing supernova.
What is a white dwarf?
The remaining core after a supernova
What are the features of a white dwarf?
High temperatures, no fusion, high density.
What is electron degeneracy pressure?
stops complete gravitational collapse in white dwarfs
only applies if core is less than 1.44M (Chandrasekhar limit)