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Edexcel IGCSE Physics C Stellar Evolution Questions

Practise interpreting star data, colour-temperature links, evolutionary pathways, absolute magnitude and Hertzsprung-Russell diagrams.

Syllabus
First assessment 2019
Course
Physics 4PH1

Exam points

  • use colour and temperature data to order stars from coolest to hottest
  • predict stellar evolution from mass, including supernova, neutron star or black hole paths
  • label or interpret HR diagram axes using temperature and absolute magnitude

Covered syllabus points

8.7 Star colour classification8.8 Star colour and temperature8.9 Sun-like star evolution8.10 Massive star evolution8.11P Absolute magnitude8.12P Hertzsprung-Russell diagram

Question 1

[Maximum number: 8]

This question is about astrophysics.

Question (a)

(a)

Table 2 gives information about four different stars in the same galaxy as the Sun.

Table 2

Table 2

[ 8 ]

Question (i)

(i)

Explain how the stars in table 2 can be classified according to their colour.

[ 3 ]

Question (ii)

(ii)

Describe the likely future evolution of Antares.

[ 3 ]

Question (iii)

(iii)

Describe what additional information is needed to predict the next evolutionary stage for Vega.

[ 2 ]

Question 2

[Maximum number: 1]

The student extends the investigation by recording additional data for the lamp.

This is her method.
For each voltage
- switch the current on for 45 seconds
- record the current and colour of the lamp
- calculate the power and the energy transferred by the lamp

The table shows the student's results.

Table for Question 2 — Edexcel IGCSE Physics

The colour of a star is related to its surface temperature.

The Sun is yellow.
Use the student's results to identify a colour for a star that is cooler than the Sun.

Question 3

[Maximum number: 4]

This question is about stars.

Describe the stages in the evolution of a star similar in mass to the Sun.

Question 4

[Maximum number: 3]

This question is about astrophysics.

Table 2 gives information about four different stars in the same galaxy as the Sun.

Table 2

Table 2

Explain how the stars in table 2 can be classified according to their colour.

Question 5

[Maximum number: 2]

This question is about stars.

Astronomers measure the absolute magnitude of stars.

State what is meant by the term absolute magnitude.

Question 6

[Maximum number: 5]

This question is about stars.

The evolution of stars can be shown on a Hertzsprung-Russell diagram (HR diagram).

Complete the HR diagram by
- labelling the x-axis
- completing the absolute magnitude scale
- drawing the main sequence, red giant and white dwarf regions

Figure for Question 6 — Edexcel IGCSE Physics
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