Complete the sentences - AQA - GCSE Physics - Question 9 - 2020 - Paper 1
Question 9
Complete the sentences.
The Sun is a stable star. This is because the forces pulling inwards caused by ____________________ are in equilibrium with the forces pushin... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Complete the sentences - AQA - GCSE Physics - Question 9 - 2020 - Paper 1
Step 1
Complete the sentences.
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Answer
The Sun is a stable star because the forces pulling inwards caused by gravity are in equilibrium with the forces pushing outwards caused by the energy released by nuclear fusion.
Step 2
Write down the equation that links distance travelled (s), speed (v) and time (t).
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Answer
The equation is given by:
s=vt
Step 3
Calculate the time taken for light from the Sun to reach the Earth.
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Answer
To calculate the time taken, we can use the formula:
s=vt
Where:
Distance, s=1.5imes1011 m
Speed, v=3.0imes108 m/s
Rearranging the formula to find time (t):
t=vs=3.0×1081.5×1011=500 seconds
Step 4
Describe the life cycle of stars much more massive than the Sun, including the formation of new elements.
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Life Cycle of Massive Stars
Formation: The life cycle begins with a cloud of gas and dust (predominantly hydrogen) collapsing under its own gravity, forming a protostar.
Main Sequence: Once the protostar's core temperature becomes high enough, nuclear fusion starts, allowing the star to enter the main sequence phase where it fuses hydrogen into helium.
Red Supergiant Stage: After exhausting hydrogen, the star's core contracts, leading to increased temperatures where helium fuses into heavier elements like carbon and oxygen. This stage culminates in the formation of a red supergiant.
Supernova Explosion: Once the core produces iron, fusion cannot continue, leading to instability. The outer layers are expelled in a supernova explosion, dispersing heavy elements throughout the universe.
Neutron Star or Black Hole: Depending on the mass remaining, the core may collapse into a neutron star or, if sufficiently massive, a black hole.
This process enriches the universe with new elements, contributing to the formation of future stars and planets.
Step 5
Which property of a star does the range of wavelengths depend on?
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Answer
The range of wavelengths emitted by a star depends on its temperature.