How does an interstellar cloud collapse to become a star?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

In the process of star formation, an interstellar cloud collapses under the force of gravity. The collapse starts at the center and then gradually progresses outwards. The innermost part collapses first, and this forms the protostar. As the protostar forms, it begins to radiate energy, which heats up the surrounding gas and slows down the collapse of the outer parts of the cloud. Eventually, the gas and dust around the protostar settle into a flattened disk, from which planets will form.

How Does an Interstellar Cloud Collapse to Become a Star