When a red giant star collapses due to gravitational forces, it typically undergoes a cataclysmic event known as a supernova. The exact outcome of the collapse depends on the mass of the star.
For stars with masses up to about eight times that of our Sun, the collapse leads to a type II supernova. During the collapse, the core of the star undergoes extreme compression and heating. The sudden increase in temperature and density triggers a violent explosion, releasing an immense amount of energy in the form of light, heat, and a blast of particles. This explosion is visible from great distances and can outshine an entire galaxy for a short period of time.
In the case of more massive stars, typically those with masses greater than eight times that of the Sun, the collapse can result in a different type of supernova called a type Ib or type Ic supernova. These stars have lost their outer hydrogen and helium layers, leaving behind a core primarily composed of heavier elements. When this core collapses, it forms a highly dense object known as a neutron star or, in some cases, a black hole. The surrounding layers of the star are expelled in a powerful explosion, releasing energy and generating a supernova remnant.
In both types of supernovae, the collapse and subsequent explosion distribute heavy elements and synthesized materials into the surrounding space, enriching the interstellar medium with these elements. This process is crucial for the formation of new stars and the creation of elements necessary for the existence of life.
It's worth noting that the collapse of a red giant into a supernova is a complex and dynamic process, and the exact details can vary depending on several factors, including the star's mass, composition, and evolutionary history. Astrophysicists continue to study supernovae to gain a deeper understanding of stellar evolution and the role these events play in shaping the universe.