What is the ultimate result of the proton-proton chain reaction in Sun-like stars?
Answer
Four hydrogen nuclei assembled into a single helium nucleus
In stars like the Sun, the primary method of energy generation involves converting hydrogen fuel into a slightly heavier element, helium. This transformation is typically executed via a sequence of reactions known collectively as the proton-proton chain. The overall stoichiometry of this process involves four separate hydrogen nuclei, which are essentially protons, being successfully combined or assembled to form one complete helium nucleus. This structural rearrangement is the fundamental power source.
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