# Explain why a massive star ends its life cycle differently to a star of similar size to the Sun.

> Edexcel GCSE Physics (1PH0) — 7.1 Astronomy (Phys only) · Explain · 4 marks

> Stars form from nebulae and spend most of their lives as main sequence stars. When a star runs out of hydrogen to fuse, it begins the final stages of its life cycle. The path it follows depends on its size.

## Mark scheme (4 marks)

1. A star similar in size to the Sun expands into a red giant (when hydrogen runs out / heavier elements are fused)
2. A Sun-sized star eventually contracts and cools to form a white dwarf
3. A massive star undergoes a supernova (because it is too massive to remain stable after fusion reactions end / core collapses and rebounds)
4. After a supernova, what remains is either a neutron star or a black hole (depending on the mass of the remnant)

## Related

- [Revision notes for Edexcel GCSE Physics (1PH0)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
- [How to answer "Explain" questions](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/tools/command-word-cheatsheet)
- [Practice this with AI marking (free)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/start)

---
Source: [GradeNine](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/q/explain-why-a-massive-star-ends-59fe6498) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.