Stars

A star is a luminous sphere of plasma held together by its own gravity. It is the fundamental building block of galaxies and the source of light and energy for most of the Universe. Stars come in a variety of sizes, colors, and temperatures, and they play a crucial role in the formation of planetary systems and the evolution of galaxies.

Characteristics of Stars

• Size: Stars can range in size from small, dense neutron stars to supergiant stars that are hundreds of times larger than our Sun.
• Color: The color of a star is determined by its temperature, with cooler stars appearing red and hotter stars appearing blue.
• Temperature: The temperature of a star affects its color, luminosity, and lifespan. Cooler stars have longer lifespans, while hotter stars burn bright and fast.
• Luminosity: Luminosity is the total amount of energy a star emits per unit time and is determined by its size and temperature.
• Composition: Stars are primarily composed of hydrogen and helium, with trace amounts of other elements.

Life Cycle of Stars

Stars go through a life cycle that is determined by their mass. This cycle includes the following stages:

1. Nebula: A star begins its life as a cloud of gas and dust called a nebula.
2. Protostar: Gravity causes the nebula to collapse, forming a dense core known as a protostar.
3. Main Sequence: The protostar becomes a main sequence star, where it fuses hydrogen into helium in its core, producing energy and heat.
4. Red Giant or Supergiant: As the hydrogen fuel is exhausted, the star expands and becomes a red giant or supergiant, depending on its mass.
5. Planetary Nebula or Supernova: Low to medium mass stars expel their outer layers to form a planetary nebula, while high-mass stars undergo a supernova explosion.
6. White Dwarf or Neutron Star: The remaining core of a low to medium mass star becomes a white dwarf, while the core of a high-mass star may become a neutron star or black hole.

Study Guide Questions

1. What is a star?
2. What factors determine the characteristics of a star?
3. Describe the life cycle of a star.
4. How does the mass of a star affect its life cycle?
5. What are the primary elements that make up a star?

[Star] Related Worksheets and Study Guides:

• Stars, Galaxies, and the UniverseEarth Science • High School