Post Main-Sequence Evolution of a 5 Solar Mass Star

This animation illustrates the predicted evolution of a 5 solar mass star after it consumes its hydrogen core fuel and evolves off the zero age main sequence (ZAMS) into the red giant region. The stages of this evolution involve the ignition of various core and shell fuel sources, and are responsible for producing the red giant, horizontal, and asymptotic giant branches of the HR diagram for an evolved cluster.

The track on the HR diagram with time is illustrated by a red line with annotations. The relative size and color of the star at various stages is illustrated schematically by the inset image at the upper left. Usage: Use the "Play" button and "Stop" button to control play. The evolution stops at various points. Continue by clicking "Play" from those points. "Home" returns to the beginning from any point.