Wolf-Rayet stars typically lose mass at what rate?

Wolf-Rayet stars are a unique category of massive stars characterized by their strong stellar winds and significant mass loss. They are in an advanced stage of stellar evolution and have already shed much of their outer hydrogen layers. The mass loss rate for these stars is exceptionally high compared to less massive stars.

Wolf-Rayet stars typically lose mass at rates exceeding 10^-5 solar masses per year, which is significantly greater than the mass loss rates observed in many other types of stars, like main-sequence stars or even red giants. This high rate of mass loss has important implications for the life cycle of these stars and the evolution of the surrounding interstellar medium, as they contribute enriched material back into the galaxy.

In the context of stellar evolution, understanding the mass loss rates of Wolf-Rayet stars helps astronomers predict events such as supernova explosions, as these stars are often progenitors of such cataclysmic events. The choice indicating rates of over 10^-5 solar masses per year correctly reflects the substantial mass loss typical of Wolf-Rayet stars.