Why Do Astronomers NOT Consider Stars with Masses More Than

question 12

Multiple Choice

Why do astronomers NOT consider stars with masses more than about 1.5 solar masses in the Drake equation when estimating the number of possible stars in the Milky Way Galaxy around which planets could form that would support intelligent life similar to humans?

• A) More massive stars would produce massive planets on which life would not be possible.
• B) More massive stars would never reach temperatures sufficient to maintain life-supporting conditions on the surfaces of its planets.
• C) A more massive star would produce so much damaging UV radiation that it would sterilize its planets.
• D) More massive stars would have evolved so rapidly that an advanced civilization would not have had time to evolve and develop.

---

Definitions:

Androgyny Scale

A measure used to assess the presence of both masculine and feminine characteristics in individuals.

Masculine

Qualities or attributes regarded as characteristic of men.

Operant Conditioning

Operant conditioning is a learning process through which the strength of a behavior is modified by reinforcement or punishment.

Gender-Role

Expectations and behaviors considered appropriate for individuals based on their perceived or assigned gender.