How elements are made in stars

Question 1

What is nuclear fission?

Answer 1

heavier nuclei decaying into lighter nuclei.

Question 2

What is nuclear fusion?

Answer 2

Nuclear fusion occurs when the nuclei of two (light) elements combine to give a heavier element.

Question 3

Where do nuclear fusion reactions occur?

Answer 3

Nuclear fusion reactions occur in the stars.

Question 4

What causes the stars to glow?

Answer 4

When hydrogen nuclei join together to make a helium nucleus, a vast quantity of energy is released that causes the stars to glow.

Question 5

What do stars turn hydrogen into?

Answer 5

All stars turn hydrogen into helium. This happens fastest in the heaviest stars because their centres are hottest. In heavy stars further nuclear reactions can take place producing elements heavier than helium.

Question 6

Where were all the naturally occurring elements made?

Answer 6

All naturally occurring elements, including those found in our bodies, were made in the stars.