Here’s how to place the energy production and the elements present in the star into the model according to each stage of the life cycle of a low-mass star like the Sun:
Life Cycle Stages:
-
Main Sequence Star
- Energy Production: Fusion in the core
- Elements Present: Mostly hydrogen and helium
-
Red Giant
- Energy Production: Fusion outside the core
- Elements Present: Mostly hydrogen, helium, oxygen, and carbon
-
Planetary Nebula
- Energy Production: No significant fusion
- Elements Present: Mostly hydrogen, helium, oxygen, and carbon (as the star sheds its outer layers)
This outlines the changes in energy production and element composition as the star evolves through its life stages.