Which force induces the core to contract inward and get hotter in massive stars at the conclusion of each episode of nuclear fusion, such as the carbon-, oxygen-, and silicon- fusion cycles?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Gravity is the force that causes the core of a massive star to contract inward and get hotter at the conclusion of each episode of nuclear fusion. When nuclear fuel in the core is exhausted, the outward pressure generated by nuclear fusion decreases, allowing gravity to dominate and compress the core further, leading to higher temperatures and pressures that can initiate the next stage of fusion.

Which Force Induces the Core to Contract Inward and Get