Why is star formation favored in the coldest regions of molecular clouds (10 to 20 Kelvin)?
Answer
The thermal resistance due to low temperature is minimized, allowing gravity to dominate.
Thermal pressure is directly proportional to temperature; therefore, lower temperatures mean the constituent particles move slower, resulting in weaker internal kinetic energy and consequently lower thermal resistance against gravitational collapse. Star formation requires gravity to win the initial contest. By residing in the coldest environments, molecular cloud cores minimize one of the primary opposing forces (thermal pressure). This minimization significantly lowers the mass required to trigger gravitational instability (Jeans Mass), thus creating conditions favorable for gravity to initiate the collapse necessary for star birth.
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