Brown dwarfs are considered failed stars because:
A) they never reach masses larger than 50 Jupiter masses
B) hydrogen fusion never begins in their cores
C) convection never plays a role in their energy transport
D) they primarily shine at infrared wavelengths
E) they are never as luminous as the Sun

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Brown dwarfs are considered failed stars because they never achieve the temperatures and pressures needed to initiate hydrogen fusion in their cores, which is the process that powers stars. Without hydrogen fusion, they cannot sustain the energy needed to shine like a true star.

Brown Dwarfs Are Considered Failed Stars Because