How does a star form and what determines its lifespan?
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MASS
The two main factors that determine the characteristics of a star are its mass and its age. The mass of a star determines its temperature, size, luminosity, and lifespan. A star's age affects its stage in its life cycle, such as whether it is a young, main-sequence star or an older red giant.
Most stars are primarily made of hydrogen and helium. The composition of a star affects its characteristics and lifespan because the fusion of these elements in the star's core produces energy through nuclear reactions. The balance between the outward pressure from nuclear fusion and the inward force of gravity determines the star's size, temperature, brightness, and how long it will live.
The temperature determines the color of the star!:)
Initially it is a question of how much material was present in the disk that collapsed to form the star. Subsequently, it may be affected by collisions with nearby stars.
Inside a star, the force of gravity is balanced by the pressure generated from nuclear fusion reactions occurring in the star's core. These nuclear reactions create an outward pressure that counteracts the force of gravity trying to collapse the star. This delicate balance between gravity and pressure determines the size, temperature, and lifespan of a star.
The factor that determines whether a neutron star or a black hole forms after a supernova explosion is the mass of the collapsing core of the star. If the core's mass is between about 1.4 and 3 times the mass of the sun, a neutron star is formed. If the core's mass exceeds about 3 solar masses, a black hole is likely to form.
Its Mass.
The one thing that determines where a star is plotted on the main sequence is its mass. A star's mass influences its temperature, luminosity, and lifespan, which are key characteristics that define its position on the Hertzsprung-Russell diagram. More massive stars are hotter and more luminous, appearing on the upper left of the main sequence, while less massive stars are cooler and dimmer, located on the lower right.
A star's birth mass determines its temperature, luminosity, size, and lifespan. These properties dictate the evolutionary path the star will take, influencing its appearance, behavior, and eventual fate. Therefore, a star's birth mass is considered its most fundamental property as it plays a crucial role in shaping its entire life cycle.
The mass of the star.
its mass