Why do only some stars become neutron stars?
Quick Answer
Stars massive enough to form iron cores can collapse after a supernova and leave a neutron star behind. If the collapsed core is too massive, it becomes a black hole instead.
The Full Story
When a very massive star runs out of fuel, fusion can no longer support its core. The core collapses catastrophically and the outer layers are blasted away in a supernova, leaving an ultra-dense remnant. If the remaining core is around 1.4 to about 2 to 3 solar masses, neutron degeneracy pressure can hold it up as a neutron star. Neutron stars are incredibly compact, typically about 20 kilometers wide, and some rotate as pulsars. Above that mass range, gravity overwhelms the pressure and a black hole forms.
Key Facts
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