What happens to the surface temperature and luminosity when a protostar radiatively contracts?
A)Its surface temperature and luminosity increase.
B)Its surface temperature remains the same and its luminosity decreases.
C)Its surface temperature and luminosity decrease.
D)Its surface temperature decreases and its luminosity increases.
E)Its surface temperature and luminosity remain the same.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

During radiative contraction, a protostar's surface temperature and luminosity increase because the contraction increases the core temperature and pressure, leading to more intense nuclear reactions and higher energy output.

What Happens to the Surface Temperature and Luminosity When a Protostar