Fusion in Stars Flashcards

All 6 cards in this deck

Why is a main sequence star stable?

The inward force of gravity is in equilibrium with the outward force due to the energy released by fusion.

Which nuclei fuse in a main sequence star, and what do they form?

Hydrogen nuclei fuse to form helium.

Where do all of the naturally occurring elements come from?

Fusion processes in stars produce all of the naturally occurring elements.

Which elements can only be produced in a supernova?

Elements heavier than iron.

What spreads the elements made in stars throughout the universe?

The explosion of a massive star (a supernova).

True or false? Fusion in a main sequence star can make elements heavier than iron.

False. Fusion in stars makes elements up to iron; heavier elements need a supernova.