Which of the following properties describes a low-mass star?
A) Has higher main-sequence luminosities than high mass stars
B) Late in life, fuses carbon into oxygen
C) Ends its life as a supernova
D) Has longer lifetimes than high mass stars

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Low-mass stars have longer lifetimes than high-mass stars because they fuse their fuel at a slower rate due to their lower mass. Choice A is incorrect because high-mass stars have higher main-sequence luminosities. Choice B is incorrect because low-mass stars do not have enough mass to fuse carbon into oxygen. Choice C is incorrect because low-mass stars end their lives as white dwarfs or planetary nebulae, not as supernovae.

Which of the Following Properties Describes a Low-Mass Star