What is the approximate mass threshold for an inert iron core that triggers immediate collapse, overwhelming electron degeneracy pressure?
Answer
The Chandrasekhar limit ($\sim 1.4$ times the mass of the Sun)
If the iron core's mass exceeds the Chandrasekhar limit, which is around 1.4 times the mass of the Sun, gravity instantly overcomes electron degeneracy pressure, sealing the core's fate.
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