A main-sequence star of 8.5 solar masses can become a white dwarf by

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Main-sequence stars of 8.5 solar masses do not have enough mass to exceed the Chandrasekhar limit (1.4 solar masses), which would cause them to explode in a Type Ia supernova and leave behind no remnant. However, as the star exhausts its fuel and begins to contract, it can lose mass through stellar winds or interactions with a companion star. This can cause the core to become degenerate and the outer layers to puff up, forming a white dwarf remnant. Therefore, losing mass is the only option that could lead to a white dwarf for a main-sequence star of 8.5 solar masses.

A Main-Sequence Star of 8