What happens when a star dies?

What happens when a star dies?

When a star dies, it undergoes a process that depends on its mass. Smaller stars like our Sun will expand into a red giant and then shed their outer layers, leaving behind a white dwarf. Massive stars, on the other hand, may explode in a supernova, leaving behind a neutron star or black hole.

What is a supernova?

A supernova is a powerful and luminous explosion that occurs at the end of a massive star's life cycle. It happens when the star can no longer support itself against gravitational collapse, leading to a dramatic release of energy and material into space.

Can you explain what a black hole is?

A black hole is a region in space where the gravitational pull is so strong that nothing, not even light, can escape from it. They are formed when massive stars collapse under their own gravity after a supernova.

What role do stars play in the universe?

Stars are fundamental to the universe as they produce light and heat, enabling the formation of planets and life. They also create heavier elements through nuclear fusion, which are essential for the formation of planets and biological processes.