How Is a Star Born in the Galaxy?

How is A Star Formed

Stars are created from dust clouds. When the cloud becomes agitated, it creates a mass of gas and dust. Because of the turbulence, the mass will collapse under its gravitational force.

Protostar

Once the cloud collapses, the material within the center starts to heat up. This form is known as the protostar. As it forms, it will pick up dust and gas. Eventually, this form will become a star. However, not all hot cores will become stars. Some may become planets, asteroids or comets.

How Long Does It Take a Star to Form

Some stars, such as the sun, can take millions of years to form. They can survive billions of years before they finally burn out. In order for a star to survive, it needs to be fueled by the nuclear fusion of hydrogen. This forms helium within the inside of the star, providing it with energy to burn.

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish
• Star Evolution
• How Does a Star Form