 |
|
| A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z |
|
|
helium shell flash
One of a series of helium burning episodes in the thin helium shell that surrounds the dormant carbon core of an asymptotic giant branch star; the helium burning shell does not generate energy at a constant rate but instead produces energy primarily in short flashes. During a flash, the region just outside the helium-burning shell becomes unstable to convection; the resultant mixing probably leads to the s-process as well as to the upward movement of carbon produced by helium burning. The overheating from a flash also causes an expansion of the star's upper layers, followed by a collapse, leading to large-scale pulsations.
Related category
• STELLAR ASTROPHYSICS
Also on this site:
Encyclopedia of Alternative Energy & Sustainable Living
Encyclopedia of History
Transport Concepts & Designs (partner site)