Life Cycle of Stars
The Process of Change over Time
Life Cycle of Stars
A star follows a pattern of change that can be compared to that of a human. While a star is not alive, several parallels can be observed:
Human Star
Fetus Protostar
Growing Child/Young Adult Main Sequence
Late Adulthood Red Giant
Death White Dwarf/Black Hole/Neutron Star
Protostar
This is the first stage of a star; interstellar material found in the nebula come together. This medium is mostly __________, and a little bit of helium.
Main Sequence
During this stage, a star develops an equilibrium between two forces:
Some element is burned through the process of _________
Spectroscopy
Spectroscopy is a technique used to explore stars and other phenomena found in space. Much of what we know about astronomy uses this tool, and this part will explain this technique as well as connect our understanding of light to what we know about the universe.
Astronomy - spectroscopy - 2/3
The Origin of the Elements
Elements are formed through nuclear fusion
Definition of fusion
examples of fusion
specific equation for the fusion of helium/carbon/oxygen/iron
About Me
I teach physical science at Kearsarge Regional High School, and am lucky to have the best students in the UNIVERSE!