What approximate total main sequence lifetime is expected for a Sun-like Star ($1 M_{ ext{suns}}$)?
Answer
About 10 billion years
Stars similar in mass to our Sun, classified as Sun-like stars and residing near the middle of the main sequence spectrum, have a characteristic lifespan on this stable phase of approximately 10 billion years. This total lifespan is derived from the combination of the hydrogen fuel available and the rate at which it is consumed. For context, our Sun is currently estimated to be 4.6 billion years old, meaning it is expected to continue its hydrogen fusion on the main sequence for roughly another 5 billion years before evolving further, completing its scheduled 10 billion year tenure.
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