3
ALMultiple Choice

Evolution of Stars

Question 3 • PAW SUMMER 18 ASTRONOMY

How do white dwarfs compare with supergiants, in terms of temperature and luminosity?

Answer
A
White dwarfs are cooler and have higher luminosity than supergiants.
B
White dwarfs are cooler and have lower luminosity than supergiants.
C
White dwarfs are warmer and have higher luminosity than supergiants.
D
White dwarfs are warmer and have lower luminosity than supergiants.

Explanation

White dwarfs have very high surface temperatures, but they are small, so they emit relatively little total light. Supergiants are much larger and have far greater luminosity, even when their surfaces are cooler. Therefore, white dwarfs are warmer and have lower luminosity than supergiants.

AI-written and checked against the verified answer.

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