What happens to the surface temperature and luminosity when gravity first assembles a protostar from a collapsing cloud?
A)Its surface temperature and luminosity increase.
B)Its surface temperature remains the same and its luminosity decreases.
C)Its surface temperature and luminosity decrease.
D)Its surface temperature decreases and its luminosity increases.
E)Its surface temperature and luminosity remain the same.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

As the collapsing cloud forms a protostar, its surface temperature and luminosity increase due to the release of gravitational potential energy. This energy is converted into thermal energy, causing the surface temperature to rise and the luminosity to increase.

What Happens to the Surface Temperature and Luminosity When Gravity