A typical protostar may be several thousand times more luminous than the Sun. What is the source of this energy?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The release of gravitational energy as the protostar continues to shrink is the energy source for a typical protostar. As the protostar collapses, its gravitational potential energy is converted into thermal energy, causing it to heat up and become luminous. Once enough heat and pressure build up in the core, nuclear fusion can ignite, providing a stable source of energy.

A Typical Protostar May Be Several Thousand Times More Luminous