Why is a white dwarf named so?

Question

Why is a white dwarf named so?

Answer 1

A White Dwarf is a star that has shed it's outer layers. Stars are made of hydrogen and helium which fuse to make heavier elements such as carbon, oxygen, ending at iron. Basically, the star (smaller stars - bigger stars explode) ends it life by shedding all of its outer layers (leftover hydrogen, helium, etc), and the iron and few other heavy elements are left. I suppose it appears white to us and it's small. Hope that helps.

Answer 2

I dunno the term "Dwarf" isn't a politically correct term when used to describe little people so why should the term "Dwarf" be used to describe lesser planets or stars, i think "little white star" would more politically correct.

Answer 3

Well, it's a small star, and small stars are called dwarf stars.  And it's white.  

Answer 4

It is named for obvious reasons.  It is small, so it is called a dwarf, an it is white hot.  

Answer 5

Because it emits white light (the "white" part), and is a very small star (the "dwarf") part.  There are also Red Dwarf stars and Blue Dwarf stars, etc.  So named because they emit red and blue light.

.