A star is a balance
A star’s life is shaped by gravity, internal pressure and the energy generated inside it.
In 30 seconds
- Stars form from collapsing regions of gas and dust.
- Nuclear fusion powers the long main-sequence stage.
- Initial mass strongly influences a star’s evolution and ending.
Make it concrete
Draw arrows inward for gravity and outward for pressure support. A balanced drawing is an idea about forces, not a still photograph of matter.
- 01Cloud
- 02Fusion
- 03Mass-dependent ending
Check your understanding
Do all stars end their lives in the same way?
- Stars form from collapsing regions of gas and dust.
- Nuclear fusion powers the long main-sequence stage.
- Initial mass strongly influences a star’s evolution and ending.
Go to the source
Sources reviewed: 13.09.2026