GCSE level questions on the Earth in Space

Q17. The Sun is the closest star to the Earth.

(a) A 2.5 kg mass would have a weight of 750 N at the surface of the Sun.

(i) Calculate the gravitational field strength at the surface of the Sun.

gravitational field strength = weight/mass

g = F/m

g = 750/2.5

g = 300 N/kg

(ii) Gravity is a non-contact force.

Which of the following is also a non-contact force?

Air resistance - Electrostatic - Friction - Tension

Electrostatic is a non-contact force

[5 marks]

(b) All stars have a life cycle.

The chart above shows part of the life cycle of a star that becomes a black dwarf.

Choose from the following stages to name stage A and stage B in the diagram:

Black hole - Neutron star - Red giant - Supernova - White dwarf

Stage A = Red giant

Stage B = White dwarf

[2 marks]

Star	Mass compared to the mass of the Sun
X	× 25.0
Y	× 15.0
Z	× 0.9

Which letter represents the star most likely to become a black dwarf?

Give a reason for your answer.

Z is most likely to become a black dwarf as only stars about the same/smaller size/mass as the Sun become Black dwarfs.

[2 marks]

(d) In which stage of the life cycle of a star are elements heavier than iron produced?

The Supernova stage

[1 mark]

(Total 10 marks)