What is the defining mechanism causing a star to generate light and heat energy?
Answer
Nuclear fusion
The essential process responsible for a star being a source of light and heat energy is nuclear fusion. This occurs deep within the star's core where immense pressure and temperature force atomic nuclei together. Specifically, the proton-proton chain reaction drives this process, where hydrogen nuclei combine to form helium nuclei, releasing a tremendous amount of energy in the process. This continuous, self-sustaining thermonuclear reaction is what allows stars to shine reliably for billions of years, distinguishing them from objects that only glow faintly from residual heat.
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