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Astrophysics, Cosmology & Relativity

Red Giant

A large, luminous star in a late evolutionary stage that has exhausted core hydrogen fuel and expanded its outer envelope.

Governing formula Radius R ~ 10–100 R_☉, T_surface ~ 3,000–4,500 K
SI unit Solar Radii (R_☉) & Kelvin

In depth

When core hydrogen exhausts, the core contracts and heats up while hydrogen shell burning causes outer layers to expand and cool to a reddish color. Later core helium ignition forms the horizontal branch.

Examples in the real world

Aldebaran and Betelgeuse operating as red giant and supergiant stars in the night sky.