What temperature range do Wolf-Rayet stars typically exist within?

Wolf-Rayet stars are a unique type of massive star that exhibit extremely high surface temperatures, typically ranging from 25,000 K to over 100,000 K. This high temperature is due to the intense gravitational forces and the rapid evolution of these stars, which cause them to undergo strong stellar winds and violent nuclear fusion processes in their cores. As a result, these stars emit significant amounts of ultraviolet radiation, which is characteristic of their hot temperatures.

The temperatures of Wolf-Rayet stars indicate their advanced stage of evolution, often arising from stars that have already burned through hydrogen and helium and are now fusing heavier elements. Their high temperatures contribute to their distinctive spectral features, allowing astronomers to classify them effectively.

Other temperature ranges provided do not align with the characteristics of Wolf-Rayet stars. The first choice suggests a range that is too low to capture the nature of these hot stars, while the second option reflects temperatures commonly associated with cooler main-sequence stars. The final option also falls short as it does not reach the upper temperature limits that define Wolf-Rayet stars, confirming that the correct selection reflects their true nature.