Chapter 33, Problem 14RQ

To determine

Whether the lifetime of a high-mass star larger or shorter than that of a low-mass star.

Answer to Problem 14RQ

Lifetime of low-mass star is larger as compared to high-mass star.

Explanation of Solution

A star**#x0027s life cycle depends on the mass enclosed in it. The larger the mass of the star, the shorter its life cycle. A star's mass depends on the amount of matter that is available in its nebula. This matter triggers the process of nuclear fusion.

The larger the star, faster the process of nuclear fusion and faster the depletion of its mass as compared to a low-mass star, while low-mass star slow process of utilizing its mass, which increases its lifetime relative to the high-mass star.

Conclusion:

Therefore, lifetime of low-mass star is larger as compared to high-mass star.