7th Week: Stellar Structure and Evolution B
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Stellar properties
Hertzsprung-Russell Diagram
Its a diagram generated by plotting the luminosity of the stars against their temperature at the surface. Here luminosity is the amount of energy a body radiates per unit time. This quantity is often measured in solar luminosities. One solar luminosity is equal to W.
Stellar evolution
All stable stars maintain a balance between the force of gravity and the internal pressure, preventing them from collapsing. In stellar plasma there are several reaction networks. The reactions with the smallest Coulomb barrier take place in the shortest time and are responsible for most of the nuclear energy generation.
Hydrostatic hydrogen burning
Hydrogen burning produces more energy than any other fuel consumed in stars.