What is the physical mechanism that initially resists the crushing gravitational pull on the iron core before it is overcome?
Answer
Electron degeneracy pressure
Electron degeneracy pressure is a quantum mechanical stabilizing force where electrons resist being squeezed into the same volume; however, the immense gravity of a massive star's iron core eventually overwhelms this resistance.
#Videos
A Detailed Breakdown of Core Collapse Supernovae - YouTube
Related Questions
What element marks the definitive end point where thermonuclear fusion can no longer provide outward pressure support in a massive star's core?What process occurs when electrons are forced into atomic nuclei, combining with protons to form neutrons and releasing neutrinos?What pressure source emerges at nuclear saturation density that successfully halts the extreme inward collapse of the imploding core?What is the approximate proportion of total supernova energy carried away by the neutrinos released during the collapse?If the collapsing remnant core exceeds the maximum stable mass limit (TOV limit), what object inevitably forms?What is the physical mechanism that initially resists the crushing gravitational pull on the iron core before it is overcome?What role do neutrinos play in the outward propagation of the supernova shockwave?How rapidly does the iron core begin its collapse once fusion ceases?What material comprises the glowing clouds ejected into space by the supernova explosion?What approximate mass range for a progenitor star typically results in a core collapse leading to a neutron star remnant?