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Here; http://arxiv.org/abs/1511.03457, Notes on Star Formation, is a primer for those with an unnatural desire for a graduate level textbook discussion of stellar formation. Fair warning, it is not for the math challenged.
Star formation is the process by which stars are created from large clouds of gas and dust in space. These clouds are called molecular clouds and they are primarily composed of hydrogen and helium, the two main elements in the universe. As these clouds collapse under their own gravity, they heat up and eventually form a protostar, which will eventually become a full-fledged star.
The time it takes for a star to form can vary greatly depending on the size and mass of the star. Generally, it takes about 10 million years for a star to form, but larger stars can take up to 50 million years. This may seem like a long time, but in the grand scale of the universe, it is relatively short.
Several factors can influence star formation, including the density and temperature of the molecular cloud, the amount of turbulence and magnetic fields present, and the amount of dust present. These factors can determine the size, mass, and type of star that will form.
Stars generate energy through a process called nuclear fusion. This is when the extreme pressure and temperature inside the star's core cause hydrogen atoms to fuse together and form helium. This process releases a tremendous amount of energy, which is what makes stars shine and provides the necessary heat and light for life on Earth.
After a star forms, it will continue to generate energy through nuclear fusion for millions to billions of years, depending on its size and mass. Eventually, it will run out of hydrogen fuel and begin to burn heavier elements, leading to its eventual death. The type of death and what happens to the star's remains will depend on its mass.