Why does the formation of an iron core stop energy generation in massive stars?
Answer
Fusing iron consumes energy rather than releasing it
Iron acts as a thermodynamic barrier because fusing iron into heavier elements requires an input of energy, thereby halting the outward pressure that supports the star against gravity.
Frequently Asked Questions
What process is responsible for forging elements heavier than hydrogen and helium deep within stars?What continuous battle defines a star's existence?What defines the main sequence phase of stellar evolution?What factor determines almost entirely the fate and elemental output of a star?What do stars with masses less than about eight times that of the Sun expand into after exhausting core hydrogen?Why does the formation of an iron core stop energy generation in massive stars?What catastrophic event is triggered when the iron core collapses?What mechanism is required to create elements heavier than iron during a supernova explosion?What is the primary mechanism stars use to distribute newly forged elements across the cosmos?Besides supernovae, what event generates extreme conditions necessary for intense *r*-process element creation?