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Chapter 16: Problem 36

(Refer to the preceding question.) Sirius has \(2.3\) times the mass of the Sun. Do you expect that the lifetime of Sirius will be longer, shorter, or the same length as that of the Sun? Explain your reasoning.

Short Answer

Expert verified
The lifetime of Sirius is expected to be shorter than that of the Sun, because Sirius is more massive and therefore consumes its fuel faster.

Step by step solution

01

Analyze the relationship between mass and lifetime of a star

The lifetime of a star is inversely proportional to its mass. In other words, the more massive the star, the shorter its life span is expected to be, as it will consume its fuel more quickly.
02

Compare the mass of Sirius and the Sun

Sirius is \(2.3\) times more massive than the Sun. Based on the rule outlined in Step 1, Sirius would consume its fuel \(2.3\) times faster than the Sun.
03

Conclude the comparison

Considering the inverse relationship between mass and star lifetime, it is expected that Sirius will have a shorter lifespan than the Sun as it is more massive.

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