# Explain how the life cycle of a star much more massive than the Sun differs from that of a star similar in mass to the Sun. In your answer, refer to the stages after the main sequence.

> AQA A-Level Physics (7408) — 3.9.3 Cosmology · Explain · 5 marks

## Mark scheme (5 marks)

1. A star similar to the Sun becomes a red giant (after the main sequence)
2. A star similar to the Sun then sheds its outer layers to form a planetary nebula / white dwarf
3. A much more massive star becomes a red supergiant (after the main sequence)
4. A much more massive star then explodes as a supernova
5. The remnant of the supernova becomes a neutron star or (if massive enough) a black hole

## Key terms

- [main sequence](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/main-sequence)

## Related

- [Revision notes for AQA A-Level Physics (7408)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
- [How to answer "Explain" questions](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/tools/command-word-cheatsheet)
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Source: [GradeNine](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/q/explain-how-the-life-cycle-of-8483755a) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.