Using the Hertzsprung-Russell diagram in Figure 17-15a and the mass-luminosity relationship for main-sequence stars shown in Figure 17-22, which of the following is the correct sequence of stars in increasing order of mass?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The Hertzsprung-Russell diagram and the mass-luminosity relationship for main-sequence stars indicate that stars with lower luminosity and cooler temperatures (like Barnard's Star) have lower masses, while stars with higher luminosity and hotter temperatures (like Regulus) have higher masses. Therefore, the sequence from lowest to highest mass is Barnard's Star (a low-mass, low-luminosity red dwarf), the Sun (a yellow dwarf with intermediate mass and luminosity), Altair (a white, hotter, and more luminous star than the Sun), and Regulus (a blue star with high luminosity and mass).

Using the Hertzsprung-Russell Diagram in Figure 17-15a and the Mass-Luminosity