Using the Hertzsprung-Russell diagram and the mass-luminosity relationship for main-sequence stars (Figure 10-14 of Comins,Discovering the Essential Universe,6th ed.),determine which type of main-sequence stars would have the highest mass.
A) M
B) A
C) O
D) G

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

According to the mass-luminosity relationship, more massive stars are also more luminous. Therefore, the main-sequence star with the highest mass would also be the brightest. The Hertzsprung-Russell diagram shows that O-type stars are the most luminous of the main-sequence stars, indicating that they have the highest mass. Therefore, the best choice is option C.

Using the Hertzsprung-Russell Diagram and the Mass-Luminosity Relationship for Main-Sequence