Nuclear Fusion Flashcards
What is nuclear fusion?
The joining of two atomic nuclei to form a larger one
Where does nuclear fusion occur? What does it release?
In stars, releasing energy
How does a protostar form?
When enough gas and dust is pulled together by gravitational attraction
How are planets formed?
Smaller masses of gas and dust are attracted by a larger mass
What does fusion is stars produce?
All the naturally occurring elements
When are elements up to iron produced?
During the stable period of a star
Where are the elements above iron produced?
In a supernova
How are elements distributed throughout the Universe?
Through the explosion of a supernova
How are stars able to maintain their energy output for millions of years?
Through the massive amount of hydrogen they go through
Why are stars stable at the main sequence stage?
As gravity is balanced by the outward forces of pressure
