During core formation, what energy conversion drives the tremendous heating of the central contracting mass?
Answer
Conversion of gravitational potential energy into thermal energy
As the core mass of the collapsing nebula continues to accrue material under the relentless pull of gravity, the gravitational potential energy that the material possesses is transformed into other forms of energy. Specifically, this potential energy is converted directly into thermal energy, causing the temperature within the contracting core to rise tremendously. This sustained, intense heating is a necessary precursor to the final stage of star birth, which is the ignition of nuclear fusion.
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