What stage precedes white dwarf formation for Sun-like stars?
Answer
Asymptotic-giant-branch (AGB)
For stars near or below the mass of the Sun, evolution off the main sequence involves a relatively prolonged expansion phase. After initial core hydrogen depletion causes the star to swell into a red giant, helium ignition occurs. Once this core helium is exhausted, the star enters a second period of instability known as the asymptotic-giant-branch (AGB). During AGB, the star puffs up into a second, larger red giant phase while fusing elements in surrounding shells. This instability culminates in the star shedding its outer layers, leaving behind the exposed hot core that will eventually become a white dwarf.
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