Astrophysics Flashcards
What is the Goldilocks zone?
The distance from a star which is inhabitable by life.
Why do Jupiter and Saturn have more moons than other planets?
They have a larger gravitational force and are located next to the asteroid belt.
What is a nebula?
The formation of stars: a large cloud of dust and gas (mainly hydrogen).
What is the life cycle of a high mass star?
Main sequence, super red giant, supernova, neutron star or black hole.
What is the main sequence?
The time when a star is fusing hydrogen. It is formed from a nebula, and then a protostar.
What is the main element that forms a star?
Hydrogen
What maintains a star’s volume?
The relationship between gravity and radiation pressure by nuclear fusion.
What is the equation for fusion?
4H -> He
What is the life cycle of a low mass star?
Red giant - red dwarf.
What is the order of the planets?
Mercury, Venus, Earth, Mars (terrestrial planets), asteroid belt, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, Neptune (gas giants)
Where are all elements heavier than iron formed?
Supernovas
What element comes after hydrogen in fusion?
Helium.
What is the difference between a red giant and a red supergiant?
A supergiant has a lot more mass and energy than a typical giant, and will go on to supernova stage instead of becoming a white dwarf.
What is the difference between a neutron star and a black hole?
A black hole is considerably more massive, and the result of the death of a much bigger star.
What will happen to the sun next?
It will become a red giant
