Astronomers use a computer model to study two protostars, P and Q, which formed in separate regions of the same nebula.
The table shows the conditions at the centres of the protostars after the same time. Neither protostar has started nuclear fusion.
| Protostar | Central density in kg/m³ | Central temperature in K |
|---|---|---|
| P | 4.0 × 10⁴ | 4.0 × 10⁶ |
| Q | 9.0 × 10⁴ | 9.0 × 10⁶ |
Using the data, explain which protostar is likely to become a main sequence star first.
When the protostar identified in part (a) becomes a main sequence star, describe what happens to its size and explain why.
84 exam-style questions on AQA GCSE Physics 8.1 Solar system; stability of orbital motions; satellites, covering 8.1.1 Our solar system, 8.1.2 The life cycle of a star, and 8.1.3 Orbital motion, natural and artificial satellites. Each one has a worked solution and a mark scheme showing where the marks go.