Can you describe the process of star formation in detail?

The process of star formation begins in a dense cloud of gas and dust called a nebula. Gravity causes the cloud to collapse, forming a dense core. As the core contracts, it heats up and eventually reaches a temperature where nuclear fusion can occur, creating a new star. The star continues to grow as it gathers more material from the surrounding cloud. Over time, the star stabilizes and begins to shine brightly, becoming a fully formed star.