How do stars die?

How do stars die?

Stars die in various ways depending on their mass. Smaller stars like our Sun will expand into red giants and then shed their outer layers, leaving behind a white dwarf.

What happens to a star when it becomes a supernova?

A supernova occurs when a massive star exhausts its nuclear fuel and collapses under its own gravity, leading to a catastrophic explosion that can outshine entire galaxies.

Are there different types of supernovae?

Yes, there are two main types: Type I supernovae, which occur in binary systems, and Type II supernovae, which happen when massive stars run out of fuel.

What remains after a supernova?

After a supernova, the core may become a neutron star or a black hole, while the outer layers are expelled into space, enriching the interstellar medium.

How does a star's death affect the universe?

The death of stars contributes to the formation of new stars and planets, dispersing elements necessary for life and influencing the evolution of galaxies.