Home > Astrophysics > Star Formation Theories

How does gravity affect star formation?

Answer 1

The main reason for star formation is gravity.

Trillions of particles are pulled together by a strong gravitational field to form stars.

On the other hand, if the gravitational pull is weaker, a cloud of gases, dust, and other materials is more likely to form instead of stars.

Nonetheless, there is a possibility that the star will turn into a neutron star or a black hole if its gravity is that much greater than that of other stars.

By signing up, you agree to our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

Answer 2

Audrey Arnold

In order for star formation to occur, molecular clouds must collapse under the force of gravity. As a cloud contracts, its core temperature rises, and nuclear fusion ignites when this temperature reaches a certain threshold.

By signing up, you agree to our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

Answer from HIX Tutor

When evaluating a one-sided limit, you need to be careful when a quantity is approaching zero since its sign is different depending on which way it is approaching zero from. Let us look at some examples.