What is the immediate consequence when a massive star's core converts silicon into iron?

Answer

The outward thermal pressure instantly ceases as fusion consumes energy

When silicon fuses to produce iron in the core of a massive star, the physical mechanism sustaining the star against its own enormous gravity fails completely. Elements lighter than iron release energy when fused, creating the necessary outward pressure to balance gravity. Iron, being the most stable element, requires energy input to fuse further; it consumes energy instead of releasing it. This means the central furnace that has been counteracting gravity for millions of years suddenly stops producing outward pressure and starts acting as an energy vacuum, allowing the overwhelming force of gravity to take immediate control.

What is the immediate consequence when a massive star's core converts silicon into iron?

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High Mass Stars: Crash Course Astronomy #31 - YouTube

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