How fast can the massive stellar core contract inward during the initial moments of collapse before reaching nuclear density?
Answer
Reaching a quarter of the speed of light
The failure of the pressure support system due to the iron core's inability to generate thermal energy leads to an incredibly swift implosion. The core, which can be comparable in size to Earth but several times the mass of the Sun, undergoes rapid contraction. The text highlights the staggering speed of this descent, noting that the core collapses inward at velocities that can attain speeds reaching up to one quarter of the speed of light. This tremendous velocity underscores the unstoppable nature of the gravitational force once the supporting pressure mechanisms have failed.
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