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Gravity and pressure in stars

Gravity and pressure in stars

Diagram showing inward self-gravity balanced by outward gas pressure in a stable star

Gravity pulls a star's material inward, while hot gas pressure from the fusion-heated core pushes outward. When these effects balance, the star is in hydrostatic equilibrium and keeps a steady size.

7.3 Stars Lesson

  1. GCSE
  2. /Physics
  3. /7.3 Stars

Step-by-step lessons on Edexcel GCSE Physics 7.3 Stars, covering 7.3.1 Evolution of stars similar to the Sun, 7.3.2 Evolution of massive stars, and 7.3.3 Observing the Universe. Each one builds up to exam-style questions. Master the required practical work and core equations early, since both papers can draw on content and maths skills from across the whole specification.

Lessons