What two types of pressure counteract gravity in a main sequence star's core?

Answer

Thermal pressure and radiation pressure

The outward force required to successfully oppose the crushing inward pull of gravity within a main sequence star's core is provided by two distinct components arising from the ongoing thermonuclear reactions. The first component is thermal pressure, which is a direct consequence of the extremely high temperature within the core; the rapid, energetic motion of the hot gas particles creates an expansive force. The second component is radiation pressure, which originates from the torrent of high-energy photons generated at the fusion sites. These light particles stream relentlessly outward from the core, exerting a physical push against the stellar material. It is the precise balance between the inward gravitational force and the combined effect of this thermal and radiation pressure that defines the star's stable state on the main sequence.

What two types of pressure counteract gravity in a main sequence star's core?

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