Some waves in stars ripple around the entire circumference, while others dive right through the core. The time it takes for sound waves to travel in a star’s interior is longer in bigger stars. For example, in the Sun, a typical wave completes one cycle in five minutes. These waves can last for a few days in Sun-like stars, but new waves are constantly forming, creating a continuous vibration in the star.
In contrast, red giants, which are much larger than the Sun, have lower-frequency waves that can last for weeks to months. By studying stars of different ages, scientists can gather information about what will happen to our own Sun as it ages. This research provides valuable insights into the life cycle of stars and helps astronomers better understand the evolution of celestial bodies.