Understanding the Expansion of the Universe Through Low Mass Star Death

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the role of low mass stars, specifically white dwarfs, in understanding the expansion of the universe. Astronomers utilize the oldest white dwarf stars to test the universe's age, which is estimated to have begun forming stars approximately 1 billion years post-Big Bang. The accuracy of these age confirmations can either support or challenge existing theories regarding cosmic expansion, as highlighted by findings from Hubble. A relevant NASA article provides additional insights into this topic.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of stellar evolution, particularly the life cycle of low mass stars.
  • Familiarity with white dwarf characteristics and their formation process.
  • Knowledge of cosmology, specifically the Big Bang theory and cosmic expansion.
  • Awareness of astronomical measurement techniques used to determine star ages.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the process of white dwarf formation and its implications for stellar evolution.
  • Study the methods used to measure the age of white dwarfs and their significance in cosmology.
  • Explore the Hubble Space Telescope's contributions to understanding the universe's expansion.
  • Investigate alternative theories regarding cosmic expansion and their challenges to current models.
USEFUL FOR

Astronomers, astrophysicists, and students of cosmology who are interested in the relationship between stellar evolution and the expansion of the universe.

physicshelp1
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Hello,

I really need help answering this question.

I know when low mass stars die, they become white dwarfs (if their mass is less than 1.4M).

But I don't know why the end points in the life of low mass stars help astromomers to understand the expansion history of the universe.

How do they show anything about the universe expanding?

Please help!

Thanks
 
Astronomy news on Phys.org
Astronomers were recently using the oldest white dwarf stars to give another test of the age of the universe. Stars are believed to have first formed 1 billion years after the big bang according to evidence from Hubble. If the age of these old stars can be confirmed with some degree of accuracy then they can confirm the age predictions based on the expansion of the universe or throw the theory into doubt. There is a NASA article about this located here:

http://hubblesite.org/newscenter/archive/releases/star/white-dwarf/2002/10/text/

I hope that was something like what you were thinking about.
 

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