Which of the following correctly describes how the process of gravitational contraction can make a star hot?
A)Gravitational contraction involves the generation of heat by chemical reactions, much like the burning of coal.
B)When a star contracts in size, gravitational potential energy is converted to thermal energy.
C)Gravitational contraction involves nuclear fusion, which generates a lot of heat.
D)Heat is generated when gravity contracts because gravity is an inverse square law force.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Gravitational contraction involves the decrease in size of a star due to the force of gravity. As a star contracts, the potential energy of its particles is converted to thermal energy, making it hot. However, choice C is incorrect because nuclear fusion is a separate process that occurs in a star's core once it has reached a certain temperature and pressure. Choices A and D are also incorrect because gravitational contraction does not involve chemical reactions or an inverse square law force.

Which of the Following Correctly Describes How the Process of Gravitational