In: Physics
1) How does the formation of a plasma core lead to nuclear fusion in a star? Why is hydrogen the first element to fuse?
2) What is the last element to fuse in a low mass star? What element has built up around the core but does not fuse? What type of object does a low mass star become to end its life cycle?
3) What element builds up around the core of a high mass star but does not fuse? Why does this lead to a massive explosion?
4) What is electron degeneracy and neutron degeneracy? When are they important in the evolution of stars?