If a main-sequence star were gaining mass by being in an interacting binary system, what would happen to that star's luminosity and why?
A) The luminosity would increase because the star would become a nova.
B) The luminosity would increase because the star's central pressure would rise and the rate of nuclear reactions would increase.
C) The luminosity would decrease because the outgoing energy has to pass through more layers in the star.
D) The luminosity would decrease because high-mass stars are fainter.
E) The luminosity would decrease because the star would quickly turn into a white dwarf.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The luminosity would increase because as the star gains mass, its central pressure and temperature increase, leading to a higher rate of nuclear fusion reactions, which increases the star's luminosity.

If a Main-Sequence Star Were Gaining Mass by Being in an Interacting