Which of these characteristics of a star make it most likely to become a black hole? Select the two correct answers.(1 point)

Question

Responses

It has an abundant supply of hydrogen.
It has an abundant supply of hydrogen.

Its mass is equal to that of the sun.
Its mass is equal to that of the sun.

Its mass is greater than 20 times the mass of the sun.
Its mass is greater than 20 times the mass of the sun.

It is dying.
It is dying.

Answer 1

The two characteristics that make a star most likely to become a black hole are:

1. Its mass is greater than 20 times the mass of the sun.
2. It is dying.

These factors are crucial; a massive star (typically more than about 20 solar masses) will undergo a supernova explosion at the end of its life cycle, which can lead to the formation of a black hole.