Summary of What happens during the life of a large star. Part 2: Star collapse and going Supernova

The center of a star cools, causing gravitational forces to win over the expansive forces, leading to rapid collapse.

The pressure and speed of nuclear fusion creating iron increase during the collapse.

Layers of oxygen, carbon, helium, and hydrogen outside the iron core gradually change into one another.

Outer elements accelerate towards the center of the star, gaining momentum and speed.

Nuclear reactions speed up as elements get closer to the center, generating more energy than gravitational forces.

The balance of forces shifts, leading to a supernova explosion that scatters elements like hydrogen, helium, carbon, oxygen, silicon, and iron.

The scattering of these elements forms the basis of life and the creation of stars, planets, and other celestial bodies.

Supernovae are not the end of the original star, leaving behind a dense neutron star with a small radius and intense rotation.

Neutron stars are composed of densely packed neutrons, making them some of the densest objects in the universe.

Notable Quotes

— 02:07 — « A result this goes supernova scattering 90% of the massive star over the nearby area, lighting up space in a spectacular display. »

— 02:53 — « Without these heavier elements, life as we know it couldn't exist. »

— 02:59 — « All made up from the elements were scattered across the universe by exploding supernova. »

— 03:49 — « A rather curious object because it starts being reduced to such a tiny volume. »

— 04:29 — « Hence why stars are called a neutron star. ] »