<<< >>>


Figure adopted from Reid (2000).

Masses > 0.08 MSun:

  • Core temperatures during contraction increase enough to maintain PPI and hydrostatic equilibrium

  • True stars - Type M (red dwarfs)

0.06 MSun < Masses < 0.08 MSun:

  • Core temperatures initially high enough for lithium burning (Li7 + p -> 2 He4)

  • Partial degeneracy absorbs energy from contraction then fusion, eventually causes downturn below critical temperature

  • "Transition Objects" - Late M, Early L

Masses < 0.06 MSun

  • Core temperatures never achieved lithium fusion.

  • Because dwarfs are fully convective, Li 6707å visible in their spectra - "the lithium test".

  • Late L, All T