What structural change transforms a star like the Sun due to intense shell burning?
Answer
Expansion into a Red Giant with a contracting helium core
The increased energy output from the hydrogen shell burning around the inert helium core exerts massive outward pressure on the star's external material. This pressure forces the outer layers of the star to inflate enormously, causing them to cool significantly as they spread over a much larger volume. This dramatic transformation results in the star becoming a Red Giant. Simultaneously, while the exterior expands, the helium core continues its gravitational contraction, leading to a steady rise in its internal temperature, preparing it for the next stage of nuclear activity.
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