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main sequence
noun
, Astronomy.
- a narrow band in the Hertzsprung-Russell diagram in which 90 percent of all observed stars are plotted.
main sequence
noun
- astronomy
- a diagonal band on the Hertzsprung Russell diagram containing about 90% of all known stars; stars evolve onto and then off the band during their lifetime
- ( as modifier )
a main-sequence star
main sequence
/ mān /
- The continuous, generally diagonal line or band in the Hertzsprung-Russell diagram ranging from the upper left to the lower right and representing stars of average size whose luminosities correspond predictably to their surface temperatures. Stars in this grouping maintain a stable nuclear reaction and experience only small fluctuations in luminosity and temperature. Main-sequence stars are believed to be in the stable, middle phase of their development; they are expected to move off the main sequence once the hydrogen in their core is exhausted. At that point, depending on its size, a main-sequence star will become a giant star, a supergiant star, or a white dwarf. The more massive the star, the faster it burns its nuclear fuel and the shorter it remains in the main sequence.
- See more at Hertzsprung-Russell diagram
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Word History and Origins
Origin of main sequence1
First recorded in 1925–30
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Example Sentences
Returning to Room X in the main sequence we find wood-carving and pottery.
From Project Gutenberg
This control, termed the Sequence Break System, allows concurrent operation of several in-out devices and the main sequence.
From Project Gutenberg
The main sequence of noise out of which the peaks rise is the 21-centimeter hydrogen line.
From Project Gutenberg
The main sequence, however, is constant and is that illustrated in fig. 13.
From Project Gutenberg
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