Stars fuse lighter nuclei to form heavier nuclei (to the extent that they are capable and...

Stars fuse lighter nuclei to form heavier nuclei (to the extent that they are capable and the fusion process is energetically favorable). Based on the plot of binding energy per nucleon, do you expect to see fusion of uranium atoms in a star? Why/why not?

Expert Solution

Based on the plot of binding energy per nucleon, we expect to see fusion of uranium atoms in a star because,

When a star is formed, it initially consists of hydrogen and helium created in the Big Bang, the process that created

our universe. Hydrogen isotopes collide in a star and fuse forming a helium nucleus. Later, the helium nuclei collide

and form heavier elements. Fusion is a nuclear reaction in which nuclei combine to form a heavier nucleus.

It is the basic reaction which drives the Sun. Lighter elements fuse and form heavier elements.

In fact, nuclear fusion reactions are responsible for the energy output of most stars, including our own Sun.

genius_generous answered 1 year ago

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