Past exam of the short options paper shared by Prelims and Parts A and B of the physics course of the University of Oxford / 2018 / S26 / 2 / b / Solution

Use characteristic stellar values in the supplied radiative temperature gradient: $T_c/R\sim \kappa \rho L/(R^2{T}_c^3)$. Hence $L\propto T_c^{4}R/(\kappa \rho )$. With Kramers opacity, $\kappa ={\kappa }_0\rho T_c^{-3.5}$,Hydrostatic support by an ideal gas gives $T_c\propto \mu M_s/R$, or $R\propto \mu M_s/T_c$. Substitution then yieldsThe result assumes homologous density and temperature profiles, comparable structural constants, gas-pressure support and radiative transport throughout. It is not simultaneously an electron-scattering-opacity result; replacing Kramers opacity changes the exponents. Convection, degenerate cores or a different opacity regime limit quantitative application to real evolved helium stars.