Oxford AQA IGCSE · Physics (9203)

Life cycle of a star: Practice Questions

5 multiple-choice questions marked as you go, and 5 written questions with worked solutions. All on Life cycle of a star.

10 questions27 marksFree, no account

Question 1

1 mark

Which of the following describes the correct life cycle for a star with a mass similar to the Sun?

Question 2

1 mark

The diagram provided shows the life cycle of two different types of stars based on their initial mass.

Which label correctly identifies the stage where the core collapses rapidly and the outer layers are blasted away into space?

Question 3

1 mark

What happens to the core of a star when it transitions from the main sequence to the red giant stage?

Question 4

1 mark

Which of the following statements about the distribution of elements in the universe is correct according to the life cycle of stars?

Question 5

1 mark

Elements heavier than iron are produced in which stage of a star's life cycle?

Question 6

3 marks

Describe the physical process by which a nebula transitions into a protostar.

Write your answer out first, then check it against the worked solution.

Question 7

5 marks

Explain how the process of nuclear fusion in the core of a star provides the outward pressure needed to oppose gravitational collapse.

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Question 8

3 marks

Explain why a star remains stable during the main sequence period of its life cycle.

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Question 9

4 marks

Main sequence stars are stable for millions of years.

Describe the forces acting on a star during its main sequence period and explain how these forces achieve a state of equilibrium that maintains the star's size.

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Question 10

7 marks

Stars much more massive than the Sun follow a different life cycle compared to stars of a similar size to the Sun.

Describe the stages of the life cycle for a very massive star, starting from the main sequence until the end of its life. Contrast the final possible outcomes for a massive star with the outcome for a star like the Sun.

Write your answer out first, then check it against the worked solution.

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