Process:  - A star forms - The star does not have enough mass to become a neutron star - The star goes through a change in its core and bonds helium to carbon and oxygen - The star becomes a red giant - A mass of carbon and oxygen builds up in the center of the star - The star sheds its outside layers and becomes a nebula - The star leaves behind the core which becomes a dwarf star.  Perturbation hypothesis: suppose star is in a stable environment happens, how will it affect a SMALLER white dwarf star.  Does the supposed perturbation have an effect (direct or indirect) on the process?

yes