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Chapter 20: Problem 22

In what way does the structure of an aging supergiant resemble that of an onion?

Short Answer

Expert verified
The structure of an aging supergiant resembles that of an onion due to their shared characteristic of having various concentric layers. In the aging supergiant, these layers represent different stages of nuclear fusion, while in the onion, they comprise membranes and scales.

Step by step solution

01

Understanding the Structure of an Aging Supergiant

An aging supergiant is characterized by multiple layers of different elements, formed due to various stages of nuclear fusion that the star has undergone throughout its lifetime. At its core, heavier elements like iron are present, whereas in the surrounding layers, lighter elements like helium and hydrogen can be found.
02

Understanding the Structure of an Onion

An onion consists of a series of concentric layers, each comprising of a thin membranous skin covering a layer of fleshy cool white or purplish scales. The layers start from a central core and extend outwards.
03

Making Comparisons

Both the aging supergiant and an onion have layered structures. In the star, these layers represent different stages of nuclear fusion and contain varying elements, and in the onion, they consist of distinct membranes and scales extending outwards from a central core.

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