What single variable dictates a star's entire main sequence tenure?
Answer
The star's mass
The initial mass a star possesses when it forms is identified as the fundamental control knob governing its entire duration spent on the main sequence. While factors like metallicity can cause minor variations, mass is overwhelmingly the dominant influence that sets the star's fate regarding its stable hydrogen-burning phase. This mass determines the core conditions, which in turn dictates the rate of energy production required to counteract the overwhelming force of gravity trying to cause gravitational collapse.
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