stellar evolution theory

Stellar evolution theory describes how stars form, change, and eventually die. Stars begin as clouds of gas and dust that collapse under gravity, igniting nuclear fusion in their cores to produce light and heat. Over time, they go through various stages—such as expanding into giants or shrinking into white dwarfs—depending on their mass. Massive stars may end in dramatic supernova explosions, forming neutron stars or black holes. Less massive stars slowly cool and fade. This continuous process shapes the universe by creating new elements and structures from stellar material.