Star Formation and Molecular Clouds

Star formation occurs within molecular clouds, which are large, dense regions of gas and dust in space. These clouds are often cold and can trigger the birth of new stars when gravity causes parts of them to collapse. As the material falls inward, it forms a protostar, which heats up due to pressure. When the core becomes hot enough for nuclear fusion to begin, a new star is born. This process can take millions of years and enriches the universe by creating heavier elements, contributing to the lifecycle of galaxies and the formation of planets.