Lab Title:  Life Cycle and Characteristics of Stars

MATERIALS

• Star chart
• Star size template
• Markers
• Tape
• HR diagram

OVERVIEW AND PURPOSE

To compare the characteristics and life cycle of various stars by plotting stars on a �HR� diagram.

PROBLEM

How does our Sun compare to other stars?  What is the fate of our Sun?

HYPOTHESIS

I think our Sun is _______________________size star.  It is ________________________in color. 
It will eventually become a ____________________________ and then a _______________________________________________________________________________.

WHAT DO YOU THINK?

Is there a relationship between color and temperature? Explain

OBSERVE AND ANALYZE

Is there a relationship between color and size? Explain

CONCLUDE    Write a paragraph summarizing the main points of this activity.  Staple to this lab report.  Be sure to include the following questions in your paragraph:

Is there an area where most stars are situated? Astronomers call this the Main Sequence. What do you think the Main Sequence represents?  Think about the life cycle of the stars.  Why do you think some stars are not situated in the Main Sequence?  Briefly describe a "Black Hole".  Which star could become a "black hole?

CHALLENGE

What is the difference between the �Apparent Magnitude� of a star and the �Absolute Magnitude� of a star? Hint: think of the flashlight analogy.