Page 1

Understanding Stars

What is a star?
A star like our sun is a large glowing ball of gas initially mostly made of
hydrogen and helium. Scientists estimate that there are approximately 100
billion stars in our universe. Astronomers categorize stars according to
their physical characteristics or properties. Characteristics used to classify
stars include color, temperature, luminosity, size and composition. All stars
are different and vary in characteristics.

Color and Temperature

A stars color is an important property that helps scientists determine the
temperature of a star. Observe the chart to relate a stars color to its
temperature in K (Kelvin).
Color Approximate Surface Temperature
Blue to White 6,000 - 7,500 K
White to Yellow 5,000 - 6,000 K
Orange to Red 3,500 - 5,000 K
Red under 3,500 K

Luminosity
A stars luminosity is the amount of energy it releases, or its brightness. A
hotter star of the same size is more luminous than a cooler star and a
larger star is more luminous than a smaller star. The brightest or most
luminous star in our universe is Sirius. So why does our Sun appear so
bright to us? It is because our sun is the closest star to our planet.

Size
Stars vary in size as they change through their life cycle. Some of the
largest stars are red supergiants such as VY Canis Majoris. This star is so
massive that if placed in our solar system it would it extend from the Sun to
Saturn. Some of the smallest stars are red dwarfs, however although
considered small, they are still as large as Jupiter, the largest planet in our
solar system.
 Page 2

Composition
A stars composition changes as it proceeds through its life cycle.
Astronomers use spectroscopes, a tool used to analyze a stars spectral
patterns. These patterns inform scientists about the elements present in
stars.

Spectral Pattern for Hydrogen

Spectral Pattern for Iron

All stars begin with hydrogen and helium and gradually go through a
process of nuclear fusion to fuse with heavier elements. The size of the
star determines how long it lives and continues the nuclear fusion process.
Medium size stars like the Sun can fuel themselves longer than smaller
stars by fusing helium into oxygen and carbon. Very large stars can
continue the nuclear fusion process much, much longer, making heavier
elements like calcium and iron. By identifying the type of elements in a
star, astronomers can identify the size of the star. Refer to the diagram
below.