Gravitational collapse refers to the process by which a massive object, such as a star, collapses under the influence of its own gravitational force. This phenomenon occurs when the outward pressure from internal nuclear fusion reactions can no longer counteract the gravitational pull due to the object’s mass.

The stages of gravitational collapse vary depending on the mass of the object:

Protostar Formation: In the early stages, a collapsing gas and dust cloud forms a protostar, where gravitational energy is converted into thermal energy.

Main Sequence (for stars like the Sun): Stable equilibrium is reached as the star fuses hydrogen into helium, counteracting gravitational collapse with outward pressure.

Supernova (for massive stars): High-mass stars undergo a violent collapse, leading to a supernova explosion, neutron star, or black hole formation.

Gravitational collapse is a crucial process in astrophysics, influencing the life cycle of stars and the formation of diverse cosmic structures.