What quantum mechanical resistance, stemming from the Pauli exclusion principle, initially supports the stellar core against gravity?

Answer

Electron degeneracy pressure

Before the catastrophic failure, the immense weight of the overlying stellar material is counteracted by a quantum mechanical effect known as electron degeneracy pressure. This pressure arises because the Pauli exclusion principle strictly dictates that no two electrons can occupy the exact same quantum state. When gravity compresses the core intensely, the electrons are packed so tightly that they vehemently resist further compression by exerting a strong outward quantum mechanical force. This defense mechanism successfully balances gravity until the iron core grows heavy enough to exceed a critical mass limit, where gravity overwhelms even this powerful resistance.

What quantum mechanical resistance, stemming from the Pauli exclusion principle, initially supports the stellar core against gravity?

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