The description that best summarizes the steps that take place during black hole formation in the correct order is:
A massive star depletes its nuclear fuel; gravity overpowers the star; supernova occurs; core of star collapses.
This sequence accurately reflects the process of black hole formation: a massive star runs out of nuclear fuel, causing gravity to take over and lead to a supernova explosion. Following this explosion, the remaining core collapses, potentially forming a black hole.