In this assignment we will focus on the end stages of stars.   For this assignment I would like you to answer the following questions:

1.  Describe what happens  at the end of the life of low mass stars.  be sure to describe changes to the inner structure of the star and the planetary nebula, white dwarf stars, novas, and Type 1a supernovae.

2.  Describe what happens at the end of the life of high mass stars—be sure to describe all of the things that lead up to and what happens in a type Type II supernovae.

3.   Explain what a neutron star is, describe its characteristics (ex size, density) and give a detailed explanation of how they form including how the neutrons themselves form.

4.  Explain what a pulsar is, describe its characteristics, and give a detailed explanation of the pulsar model.

You can upload your rough draft to the Chapter 14 Similarity Checker . If it is above 20% please revise it before you submit the final draft.

Each answer should be about a paragraph in length.  Make sure to answer the questions in your own words–I’m not looking for a word for word explanation from the book or the bullet points at the end of the chapter.

Each answer is worth up to 5 points.  The characteristics of a 5 point answer are:  

*The question is answered correctly (1-2 sentences)

*There is extensive is elaboration to support/illustrate the answer (3-4 sentences)

*The spelling and use of conventions (capitalization, punctuation) is correct.  Proper grammar is used (sentences flow well when read aloud).   

*The writing proceeds in a logical fashion–it is straight and to the point.  There is no filler or unnecessary information

Here is an example of a 5 point answer for a question in earth science:  “What is a composite volcano”?

A composite volcano is made of alternating layers of hardened lava and compacted ash.  A composite volcano is broad at the base and get steeper with altitude.   Composite volcanoes form from alternating quiet and explosive eruptions.  Quiet eruptions have gentle flows of lava which harden to form the broad base.  Explosive eruptions  have ash and other pyroclastic materials that build up to form the steep top.  Mt. St. Helens is an example of a composite volcano.