Exam-style question
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On the main sequence of the HR diagram, which of the following statements is true regarding the relationship between a star’s mass and its position?.
- A.Higher mass stars are found at lower temperatures and lower luminosities.
- B.Higher mass stars are found at higher temperatures and higher luminosities.
- C.Higher mass stars are found at higher temperatures but lower luminosities.
- D.Higher mass stars are found at lower temperatures but higher luminosities.
Model answer
What a good answer should say
- Higher mass stars are found at higher temperatures and higher luminosities.
Explanation
Why this works
Main‑sequence stars obey a mass–luminosity relation: more massive stars have larger core temperatures, burn fuel faster, and therefore shine more brightly and appear bluer (hotter). Thus they occupy the upper‑left region of the main sequence.
Common mistake
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