In: Physics
Demonstrate that, for any known chemical reaction, the Sun's lifetime would be several orders of magnitude smaller than in the case of thermal energy emission (Kelvin-elmholtz time) if such a reaction was responsible for solar luminosity.
Answer:
Kelvin-Helmholtz time (or lifetime of Sun) = Gravitational Potential Energy of Sun/Luminosity of Sun
or, Lifetime of Sun = (GM/R2)/3.8 X 1026 = 3 X 107 Years