What is the future of the Sun as a red giant?

What will happen to the Sun when it becomes a red giant?

When the Sun becomes a red giant, it will expand significantly, potentially engulfing the inner planets, including Earth.

How long will it take for the Sun to become a red giant?

The Sun is expected to enter the red giant phase in about 5 billion years, after exhausting its hydrogen fuel.

What changes will occur on Earth during this phase?

As the Sun expands, temperatures on Earth will rise dramatically, leading to the loss of oceans and a hostile environment.

Will the Sun eventually shrink back down after becoming a red giant?

Yes, after the red giant phase, the Sun will shed its outer layers and shrink into a white dwarf, leaving behind a planetary nebula.

What will happen to the solar system after the Sun becomes a white dwarf?

The remaining planets will continue to orbit the white dwarf, but the solar system will be much colder and darker.