Star Formation

Star formation is the process by which dense regions within molecular clouds in space collapse under their own gravitational attraction, leading to the creation of stars. This process typically involves various stages, starting from the initial accumulation of gas and dust, to the collapse of these materials into protostars, and finally leading to the ignition of nuclear fusion in the core, which marks the birth of a new star. Star formation occurs in a variety of environments, such as within the spiral arms of galaxies or in star clusters, and is influenced by factors such as turbulence, temperature, and the presence of external pressures like shock waves from nearby supernovae. The study of star formation is essential for understanding the evolution of galaxies, the formation of planetary systems, and the overall dynamics of the universe. The characteristics of newly formed stars, including their mass, composition, and the presence of surrounding disks of gas and dust, can vary widely, impacting their subsequent development and lifecycles.