What mechanism supports the remnant core of a Sun-like star after it forms a white dwarf?
Answer
Electron degeneracy pressure
The white dwarf remnant is no longer supported by thermal pressure from fusion but is held up by electron degeneracy pressure, a quantum mechanical effect resisting the squeezing of electrons into the same quantum state.
Related Questions
What two opposing forces define a star's hydrostatic equilibrium?What event signals the definitive end of a star's main-sequence life?What happens immediately after the core hydrogen fuel is spent?How does hydrogen shell burning generally affect a star's energy output?What change characterizes a star transforming into a Red Giant?What mechanism supports the remnant core of a Sun-like star after it forms a white dwarf?What is the final fusion product achieved in the core of a very massive star before terminal instability?Why does the formation of an iron core lead to instantaneous energy loss?What is the result if the remnant core mass after collapse exceeds the neutron star limit?In variable stars like Cepheids, what triggers the violent expansion phase?