This discontinuity is called the tip of the red giant branch.

Carbon and nitrogen is being continuously supplied by intermediate mass stars as they pass through the asymptotic giant branch.

This puts stars onto the asymptotic giant branch, a second red-giant phase.

The galaxy has a well-defined and easily observed red giant branch, which makes measuring its distance relatively easy.

They then move across from the main sequence into the giant branch.

Evolution towards the red giant branch for the first time is very rapid while stars can spend much longer on the horizontal branch.

At this point the star is evolving off the main sequence and entering the giant branch.

The star has reached the asymptotic giant branch of its evolution.

One giant branch, with a dozen hands attached, heaved into the air.

This was a giant branch; it would not be easy to sever at the base, but farther out there should be no trouble.