Evolutionary Tracks in the H-R Diagram
Evolutionary tracks in the Hertzsprung-Russell (H-R) diagram serve as fundamental tools in understanding the life cycles of stars. This diagram, plotting stellar luminosity against surface temperature, delineates the progression of stars from their birth to their eventual demise. By tracing the evolutionary paths of stars across this diagram, astronomers can unravel the intricate processes of stellar evolution, from protostellar clouds to main-sequence stars, red giants, and beyond. These tracks offer insights into the mechanisms governing stellar evolution, shedding light on phenomena such as nuclear fusion, stellar pulsations, and the formation of exotic stellar remnants.
Questions
- What three properties of stars can astronomers determine by analyzing the spectrum of the stars light?
- Is there an upper limit to the mass of a star above which it would not enter the AGB? If so, why?
- How are AGB stars formed?
- At what point in a star's life are they classified as AGB?