Classification of stars (A-level only)

Question 8

The table below gives observational data for the blue supergiant star Rigel and the Sun.

Table 1

Name	Radius / $m\text{m}$	Surface temperature / $K\text{K}$
Rigel	$8.4 \times 10^{10}$	$00024\,000$
Sun	$7.0 \times 10^{8}$	$0006\,000$

a.

Calculate the ratio:

\frac{\text{power output of Rigel}}{\text{power output of the Sun}}

[3]

b.

Discuss the evolutionary path of a supergiant star like Rigel, and explain why its ultimate fate could pose a severe hazard to life on Earth if it were located in our local stellar neighborhood.

[3]

Classification of stars (A-level only)

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Question 8

The table below gives observational data for the blue supergiant star Rigel and the Sun.

Table 1

Name	Radius / $m\text{m}$	Surface temperature / $K\text{K}$
Rigel	$8.4 \times 10^{10}$	$00024\,000$
Sun	$7.0 \times 10^{8}$	$0006\,000$

a.

Calculate the ratio:

\frac{\text{power output of Rigel}}{\text{power output of the Sun}}

[3]

b.

Discuss the evolutionary path of a supergiant star like Rigel, and explain why its ultimate fate could pose a severe hazard to life on Earth if it were located in our local stellar neighborhood.

[3]

Classification of stars (A-level only)

Question 8

Classification of stars (A-level only) Questions

Classification of stars (A-level only)

Question 8

Classification of stars (A-level only) Questions