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?
- A. Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct and Statement-II explains Statement-I
- B. Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct, but Statement-II does not explain Statement-I
- C. Statement-I is correct, but Statement-II is incorrect
- D. Statement-I is incorrect, but Statement-II is correct
Answer: D
Explanation
Giant stars are significantly more massive and luminous than dwarf stars. Due to their larger mass and higher core temperatures, giant stars undergo nuclear fusion at a much faster rate, consuming their hydrogen fuel rapidly. This high rate of nuclear reactions (Statement-II is correct) leads to them having much shorter lifespans compared to dwarf stars, which burn their fuel more slowly. Therefore, Statement-I, which claims giant stars live much longer, is incorrect. The rapid fuel consumption in giant stars is precisely why they have shorter lives, making Statement-II correct and Statement-I incorrect. This question assesses fundamental concepts in astrophysics, a static part of the Science & Technology syllabus.