What physical phenomenon does asteroseismology analyze to determine a star's interior structure?
Answer
Subtle, periodic variations in brightness caused by internal pressure waves
Asteroseismology involves analyzing oscillations, or 'starquakes,' caused by internal sound waves traveling through the star, which allows scientists to map internal density, temperature, and composition.
Frequently Asked Questions
What fundamental property dictates a star's fuel consumption rate and lifespan?What relationship is plotted on the Hertzsprung-Russell (H-R) diagram to aid in stellar aging?Why are star clusters considered reliable natural laboratories for determining stellar age?What event marks the main-sequence turnoff point on an H-R diagram for a cluster?If the turnoff point in a cluster corresponds to stars five times the mass of the Sun, what does this imply about the cluster's age?What major factor introduces greater uncertainty when dating a single, isolated star compared to a cluster?What type of 'clock' dictates the aging process for a planet like Earth, contrasting with stellar dating?How does a star lose angular momentum over time in the process known as gyrochronology?What physical phenomenon does asteroseismology analyze to determine a star's interior structure?What specific internal feature provides a direct age signature when using asteroseismology on a hydrogen-fusing star?