Explain the process of nuclear fusion in the Sun.

In the Sun the main fusion process is the fusion of hydrogen nuclei to form helium nuclei. Any two hydrogen nuclei repel each other as they are both positively charged, for the fusion to occur the two nuclei need to get close enough together so that this repulsion is overcome. This is achieved by the high temperature and pressure in the core of the Sun. The total mass of the products is less than the total mass of the reactants, the mass difference is released as energy, given by the equation E = mc2.

JA
Answered by Jake A. Physics tutor

8223 Views

See similar Physics GCSE tutors

Related Physics GCSE answers

All answers ▸

What is the reaction force? (eg from the ground or table)


The energy transferred from the water in the kettle to its surroundings in 2 hours is 46 200 J. The mass of water in the kettle is 0.50 kg. The specific heat capacity of water is 4200 J/kg °C. What is its temperature after 2 hours?


Describe the transfers of energy occurring when a ball is thrown vertically up in the air and falls back down to Earth, assuming there is no friction from the air.


Explain what is meant by “terminal velocity” with regards to falling objects.


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning