Stellar Evolution
4 marks · EasyThe Hertzsprung-Russell (HR) diagram shows the relationship between a star’s brightness and its surface temperature. The position of a star on the diagram can be used to learn about its properties.
What information about a star can scientists gain from knowing its position on the HR diagram? Give two points.
State the region you would expect to find our Sun during the main stable period of its life.
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(a) Scientists can determine a star’s internal structure and the stage of its life cycle from its position on the HR diagram. · must show Internal structure, Life stage
(b) During its main stable period, the Sun would be in the main sequence region of the HR diagram. · must show Main sequence region
Show mark scheme and worked solution
Marking points
B1 (a) · 1 mark · States that the HR diagram position gives information about the star’s internal structure.
B2 (a) · 1 mark · States that position shows the stage of a star’s life cycle.
B3 (b) · 2 marks · States that the Sun is found in the main sequence region during its main stable period. (Both points for correct name and correct context.)
Worked solution
a) From the star’s position on the HR diagram, scientists can tell about its internal structure and what stage in its life cycle it is at.
b) The Sun, when in its main stable period, is found in the main sequence region of the HR diagram.