Chapter 33, Problem 9RAT

To determine

The correct option for the statement “After our Sun burns its supply of hydrogen, it will become a”.

Answer to Problem 9RAT

The correct option for the statement “After our Sun burns its supply of hydrogen, it will become a” is option (d).

Explanation of Solution

After the Sun burns out its supply of hydrogen, the gravity becomes greater than the thermal pressure. The high gravity pulls the Sun inward. The temperature rises in the core due to the hydrogen core's contraction leading to more nuclear fusion of helium atoms. Due to more nuclear fusion processes inside the Sun, the thermal pressure becomes far higher than the inward force of gravity, resulting in the expansion of the star. The Sun becomes giant in size, and its color turns to red. Thus, the Sun turns to a red giant after the burning out of hydrogen fuel.

The Sun does not have enough mass to collapse into a black hole.

The Sun becomes a white dwarf after the Sun shrinks from its red giant state.

The Sun turns into a blue giant after expanding into a red giant.

Conclusion:

Therefore, the correct option for the statement “After our Sun burns its supply of hydrogen, it will become a” is option (d).