Science glossary film: White dwarf

A small, extremely dense star characterised by high temperature and low luminosity, no longer capable of nuclear fusion. A white dwarf is believed to be in its final stage of evolution, having used up most of its nuclear fuel. They are left with a core of carbon and oxygen, glowing white hot but very gradually cooling down. Most stars, including our Sun, will end their lives this way.

A white dwarf is believed to be in its final stage of evolution, having used up most of its nuclear fuel. They are left with a core of carbon and oxygen, glowing white hot but very gradually cooling down. Most stars, including our Sun, will end their lives this way.