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Chapter 17: Problem 28

Which is more massive, a red main-sequence star or a blue main-sequence star? Which has the greater radius? Explain your answers.

Short Answer

Expert verified
A blue main-sequence star is more massive and has a greater radius than a red main-sequence star.

Step by step solution

01

Comparing the masses of main-sequence stars of different colors

The mass of a main-sequence star increases from type M to type O. Given a blue main-sequence and a red main-sequence star, the blue star belongs to the O,B types and is therefore more massive than the red star that belongs to the K,M types.
02

Comparing the radii of main-sequence stars of different colors

The radius of a main-sequence star also increases from type M to type O. Thus, a blue main-sequence star (O,B types) has a greater radius than a red main-sequence star (K,M types).

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