Helium flash occurs
A)because helium is very explosive and cannot be controlled when the nuclear reactions occur.
B)because degenerate gas does not allow the core to expand as it heats up.
C)in Cepheid variables.
D)in stars with masses less than 0.4 M.
E)None of the other choices are correct.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Helium flash occurs in stars when the core reaches a temperature of almost 100 million degrees Celsius and becomes degenerate, meaning it is so dense that it does not allow the core to expand as it heats up. This causes a rapid rise in temperature and pressure, triggering a sudden fusion of helium atoms into carbon, resulting in a helium flash. Choice A is incorrect as helium is not explosive in this context. Choice C is incorrect as Cepheid variables are a type of variable star and not directly related to helium flash. Choice D is incorrect as helium flash typically occurs in stars with masses greater than 0.4 M.

Helium Flash Occurs