Because it has ceased nuclear burning in its interior and therefore no longer generates energy, why is it that a white dwarf does not shrink rapidly under the force of gravity as it cools?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The electrons within a white dwarf are in a degenerate state, which means they follow the rules of quantum mechanics rather than classical physics. According to the Pauli exclusion principle, no two electrons can occupy the same energy state. This means that as a white dwarf cools and its electrons lose energy, they cannot collapse into the same energy state and must occupy higher and higher energy states. This creates a strong electron degeneracy pressure that opposes the force of gravity, preventing the white dwarf from shrinking rapidly.

Because It Has Ceased Nuclear Burning in Its Interior and Therefore