What do massive stars require higher internal pressures and temperatures to achieve regarding gravity?

Answer

Hydrostatic equilibrium

Hydrostatic equilibrium is the crucial physical state that defines a stable star throughout its main sequence life. This state represents a perfect balance between two opposing forces: the immense inward crushing force exerted by the star's own gravity, which is directly proportional to its total mass, and the outward thermal and radiation pressure generated by the nuclear fusion reactions occurring in the core. For stars significantly more massive than the Sun, the gravitational compression is much stronger. To counteract this powerful inward pull and prevent immediate collapse, the star must generate correspondingly much higher internal pressures and sustain significantly higher core temperatures. This necessity forces these massive stars to burn their fuel much hotter and faster than smaller stars to maintain this vital equilibrium.

What do massive stars require higher internal pressures and temperatures to achieve regarding gravity?

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