Describe what happens to a star, after the main sequence period, for the star to eventually become a black dwarf. (5 Marks)

After the main sequence period, the amount of hydrogen in the stars core decreases causing the star to fuse helium nuclei instead. (Further explanation for clarification)This releases a lot of energy causing the outer layers of the star to expand. (1 mark) The star has become a red giant. (1 mark)Eventually, this red giant ejects its outer layers and shrinks (1 mark) to form a small, hot white dwarf. (1 mark) White Dwarves are smaller than main sequence stars.Over time, white dwarves radiate energy and their temperature decreases. (1 mark) Eventually, they cool so much they no longer emit radiation. (1 mark) A black dwarf has formed.

TC
Answered by Tate C. Physics tutor

13552 Views

See similar Physics GCSE tutors

Related Physics GCSE answers

All answers ▸

Describe the photoelectric effect.


Two cars are crash tested. Car A has a crumple zone, B doesn't. Both cars have mass 1500kg and a driver of mass 80kg and crash at 20m/s. Cars A and B take 0.8 and 0.2 seconds to stop respectively. Using this information, are crumple zones a necessity? (6)


The teacher quickly inverts the can containing boiling water into a bowl of cold water, as shown in the diagram. When the can is inverted in the cold water, the can collapses. Use ideas about particles and pressure to explain why the can collapses.


Describe (both quanititavely and qualitiatively) the energy changes of a ball of mass 0.5kg, dropped from a height of 10m and left to bounce. Make use of the law of conservation of energy.


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning