Scientists can study the internal structure and evolution of stars by detecting ripples created by sound waves traveling through their interiors. These waves can either circle the entire circumference of the star or shoot straight through its core. Larger stars take longer for these waves to travel through their interiors, with a typical wave in the Sun completing one cycle in just five minutes.
Sun-like stars are always vibrating due to new waves constantly appearing, while red giants, much larger than the Sun, have lower-frequency waves that can last for weeks to months. By studying stars of different ages, scientists gain insights into what will happen to our own Sun as it ages.
The analysis of these sound waves provides valuable information about the life cycles of stars and how they change over time. This knowledge helps scientists better understand the internal structure and evolution of stars.
