Natural Science CLEP Prep Practice Exam

In what type of physical condition does a star exist during the supergiant stage?

1. Highly dense

2. Hot and dense

3. Hot and expanding

4. Large and bright

The correct answer is: Hot and expanding

During the supergiant stage, a star is in a phase of its life where it has consumed most of its hydrogen fuel, causing it to expand and become much larger in size. This increased size and expansion also results in a decrease in density for the star. Option A and B are incorrect because they suggest that a star would become more dense during the supergiant stage, which is not the case. Option D is incorrect because although a supergiant star is large, it may not always be bright as it depends on its composition and varying levels of luminosity. Therefore, the most accurate option is C, as it correctly describes the physical condition of a supergiant star as being hot and expanding.