Which stellar remnant is described as a dense core supported by electron degeneracy pressure?
Answer
White dwarf
A white dwarf is classified as a stellar corpse, representing the final evolutionary stage for stars that were not massive enough to undergo further fusion beyond hydrogen and helium burning cycles. Once core fuel is exhausted, gravity attempts to crush the object further, but this collapse is halted by a quantum mechanical effect known as electron degeneracy pressure. This pressure arises from the resistance of electrons packed tightly together, preventing further compression and allowing the white dwarf to exist as an incredibly dense, non-fusing stellar remnant that slowly radiates away residual heat.
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