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Our Sun is a main sequence star - Edexcel - GCSE Physics - Question 2 - 2015 - Paper 1
Question 2
Our Sun is a main sequence star. It will stay as a main sequence star for millions of years, continuing to radiate energy. (i) Describe the formation of our Sun fro... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Our Sun is a main sequence star - Edexcel - GCSE Physics - Question 2 - 2015 - Paper 1
Step 1
Describe the formation of our Sun from nebula to main sequence.
Answer
The formation of our Sun began in a nebula, which is a large cloud of gas and dust.
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Nebula Collapse: The process is initiated by gravity, which causes the particles within the nebula to collapse together. This contraction leads to an increase in temperature as the gas compresses.
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Formation of a Protostar: As the temperature rises, a protostar forms at the center of the collapsing nebula. The energy from the gravitational collapse is converted into thermal energy.
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Nuclear Fusion Initiation: Eventually, the temperature and pressure in the core become high enough to trigger nuclear fusion.
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Main Sequence Star: Once fusion starts, hydrogen atoms combine to form helium and release energy, marking the transition to the main sequence stage where our Sun will spend most of its life.
Step 2
Which of these stages will our Sun go through?
Answer
Our Sun will go through various stages in its lifecycle. Among the options provided, the correct answer is:
- D a white dwarf
This indicates that in its later stages, the Sun will expand and eventually shed its outer layers, leaving behind the core to become a white dwarf.