Thermonuclear fusion in the Sun

In summary: I will assume the summary you want is the one you provided in the previous post. [tex]\text{:)}[/tex]
  • #1
rahulrathod
1
0
Q. Our present theory of the sun and the mechanism of
thermonuclear fusion inside it predicts that the following reactions
occur in the sun.
1H + 1H --> 2H + antielectron + neutrino
1H + 1H --> 2H + antielectron + neutrino
electron + antielectron --> photon + photon
electron + antielectron --> photon + photon
2H + 1H --> 3He + photon
2H + 1H --> 3He + photon
3He + 3He --> 4He + 1H+ 1H
A problem arises in this theory due to one of its calculated
count of something not matching with the observational counting. So
what is that ‘something’ and what is the relation between the
prediction and observation (i.e. greater or smaller)?
 
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  • #2
rahulrathod said:
Q. Our present theory of the sun and the mechanism of
thermonuclear fusion inside it predicts that the following reactions
occur in the sun.
1H + 1H --> 2H + antielectron + neutrino
1H + 1H --> 2H + antielectron + neutrino
electron + antielectron --> photon + photon
electron + antielectron --> photon + photon
2H + 1H --> 3He + photon
2H + 1H --> 3He + photon
3He + 3He --> 4He + 1H+ 1H
A problem arises in this theory due to one of its calculated
count of something not matching with the observational counting. So
what is that ‘something’ and what is the relation between the
prediction and observation (i.e. greater or smaller)?
One is describing the proton-proton chain reaction.
http://csep10.phys.utk.edu/astr162/lect/energy/ppchain.html

Please explain the statement "A problem arises in this theory due to one of its calculated count of something not matching with the observational counting." What is the observation to which one is referring?

Much of the fusion occurs in the core of the sun. The gamma radiation must migrate outward and in the process, photons undergo Compton scattering.

The fact that p+p fusion has such as low cross-section or probability is the reason that a star can exist for 100 of millions or billions of years.
 
  • #3
Astronuc said:
Please explain the statement "A problem arises in this theory due to one of its calculated count of something not matching with the observational counting." What is the observation to which one is referring?

I'm guessing it refers to solar neutrino emissions:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Solar_neutrino_problem"
 
Last edited by a moderator:
  • #4
Let's not guess what the OP means; it's better to let him clarify.
 

Related to Thermonuclear fusion in the Sun

1. What is thermonuclear fusion?

Thermonuclear fusion is a process in which two or more atomic nuclei combine to form a heavier nucleus, releasing a large amount of energy in the process.

2. How does thermonuclear fusion occur in the Sun?

In the Sun, extremely high temperatures and pressures in the core cause hydrogen atoms to fuse together to form helium, releasing a tremendous amount of energy in the form of light and heat.

3. What fuels thermonuclear fusion in the Sun?

The primary fuel for thermonuclear fusion in the Sun is hydrogen, which makes up about 70% of the Sun's mass. As hydrogen atoms fuse together, they form helium and release energy.

4. Why is thermonuclear fusion important for the Sun?

Thermonuclear fusion is what powers the Sun and allows it to shine. Without this process, the Sun would not be able to produce the vast amounts of energy needed to sustain life on Earth.

5. Can we replicate thermonuclear fusion on Earth?

Scientists are currently working on creating a controlled fusion reaction on Earth, but it is a complex and challenging process. However, if successful, it could provide a virtually limitless source of clean energy for the future.

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