The sequence of changes that a star undergoes during its lifetime, from formation in a molecular cloud through various nuclear burning phases to its final fate as a white dwarf, neutron star, or black hole. The evolutionary path depends primarily on the star's initial mass.
The term combines 'stellar' (from Latin 'stella' meaning star) with 'evolution' (from Latin 'evolvere' meaning to unfold). The concept developed in the early 20th century as astronomers began understanding nuclear fusion and stellar structure.
Stars are cosmic time machines - by studying different stars we can see our Sun's entire life story played out! Massive stars live fast and die young in spectacular explosions, while low-mass stars like red dwarfs can shine for trillions of years.
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