UPSC CSE Prelims
Question 42
Consider the following statements :
Statement-I : Giant stars live much longer than dwarf stars.
Statement-II : Compared to dwarf stars, giant stars have a greater rate of nuclear reactions.
Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements ?
View correct answer and explanation
Correct answer: D
Correct Option: D (Statement-I is incorrect, but Statement-II is correct)
Explanation: High-mass giant stars consume nuclear fuel at much higher rates than low-mass dwarfs and generally have shorter lifetimes despite greater fuel reserves.
Statement / Pair / Item-wise Analysis:
I. Incorrect/False - Massive giant stars generally live for a shorter period than low-mass dwarfs.
II. Correct/True - Their nuclear reaction and energy-release rates are much higher.
Option-wise Analysis:
A. Incorrect-Statement I is false: Massive giant stars generally live for a shorter period than low-mass dwarfs.
B. Incorrect-Statement I is false: Massive giant stars generally live for a shorter period than low-mass dwarfs.
C. Incorrect-Statement I is false: Massive giant stars generally live for a shorter period than low-mass dwarfs.
D. Correct-Statement I is false and Statement II is true.