What is the role of gravity in the formation of stars?

Gravity plays a crucial role in the formation of stars by causing clouds of gas and dust in space, often referred to as nebulae, to collapse under their own weight. When a region within a nebula becomes dense enough, the gravitational attraction between the particles increases, prompting them to draw closer together. This process leads to the formation of protostars.

As the gravitational collapse continues, the temperature and pressure in the center of the forming protostar increase until conditions are favorable for nuclear fusion to begin. Once fusion starts, a star is born. This gravitational process is fundamental because without gravity, the gas and dust would remain dispersed in space rather than coming together to form stars.

The other options do not accurately describe the nature of gravity in this context. For example, gravity does not push clouds away or cause dust to scatter; instead, it works to clump material together. Saying gravity has no role in star formation ignores the foundational principle that drives stellar creation. Thus, option C reflects the essential function of gravity in star formation and development.