Sample interview questions: Can you explain the process of star formation?
Sample answer:
Star formation is a complex process that occurs within giant molecular clouds, which are vast regions of interstellar gas and dust. These clouds are primarily composed of hydrogen and helium, with trace amounts of heavier elements. The process of star formation can be summarized in several distinct stages.
The first stage is the collapse of a molecular cloud due to various triggering mechanisms, such as the shockwaves from a nearby supernova explosion or the gravitational influence of a passing star. As the cloud collapses, it fragments into smaller clumps, each of which will eventually form a star.
Within these clumps, the second stage begins with the formation of a dense core, known as a protostar. This core is primarily composed of gas and dust, and it continues to contract under its own gravity, releasing gravitational potential energy. This contraction leads to an increase in temperature and pressure, causing the core to heat up.
As the protostar continues to contract, it enters the third stage, known as the pre-main sequence phase. During this phase, the protostar’s core temperature and pressure rise to a point where nuclear fusion reactions can occur. Fusion reactions convert hydrogen into helium, releasing an enormous amount of energy in the form of light and heat.
The energy released from nuclear fusion counteracts the force of gravity, creating a delicate balance. At this stage, the protostar is known as a T Tauri star, named after the first discovered star of this type. T Tauri stars are characterized by intense stellar winds and powerful jets of gas and dust, which are a result of the protostar’s strong magnetic fields. Read full answer