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Two processes that keep the sun in existence?
The two processes that keep the sun in existence are nuclear fusion, where hydrogen atoms fuse to form helium and release energy, and gravitational forces that balance the outward pressure from fusion reactions to maintain the sun's structure. These processes provide the energy and stability needed for the sun to radiate light and heat.
How do the sun and the other stars generate their energy?
The Sun and other stars generate tremendous amounts of energy, resulting in their characteristic heat and light, from fusion processes which occur in the star's core. The most common is the fusion of hydrogen into helium, although other fusion processes also take place depending on things like the age and mass of the star. If you calculate the amount of mass converted into energy in the fusion of hydrogen into helium - about 0.7% of the mass - and multiply that by the square of the speed of light (per Einstein's famous formula, E=mc^2) that's a lot of energy!
What is the heaviest element that can be made by normal processes inside a star?
Iron is the heaviest element that can be produced by normal processes inside a star through nuclear fusion. Elements heavier than iron are typically formed in supernova explosions or through other stellar processes.
Can the moon produce light through internal nuclear combustion?
No. The moon does not produce any light of its own. It only reflects light from the sun. It does not have enough mass to ignite nuclear fusion, nor is it of the right composition. Finally, nuclear fusion and combustion are two completely different processes.
How is there oxygen in stars?
Oxygen in stars is formed through nuclear fusion processes in their cores. As stars fuse hydrogen into helium, heavier elements like oxygen are produced through subsequent fusion reactions. This oxygen can then be released into space through stellar processes like supernova explosions.
