What is the primary fuel that stars utilize in their long-lasting thermonuclear reactors?

Answer

Hydrogen

Stars function fundamentally as massive, ongoing thermonuclear reactors designed to process the universe's most abundant raw material. Hydrogen acts as the primary and initial fuel source. Gravity within these massive stellar bodies compresses hydrogen gas cores until the extreme temperature and pressure required for nuclear fusion are achieved. During this main sequence phase, hydrogen nuclei overcome their electrostatic repulsion and fuse together, primarily converting hydrogen into helium. This entire stellar lifecycle—from being born out of hydrogen clouds to shining by fusing hydrogen—is the fundamental cosmic mechanism for generating energy and creating heavier elements.

What is the primary fuel that stars utilize in their long-lasting thermonuclear reactors?

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