(a)[2]
State the meaning of a nuclear fusion reaction.
(b(i))[3]
A nuclear reaction in the Sun’s core is shown by the equation $^{2}_{1}\text{H} + ^{1}_{1}\text{H} \rightarrow ^{3}_{2}\text{He} + \text{energy}$. Calculate the energy, in joules, released in this reaction.
(b(ii))[2]
The temperature in the core of the Sun is approximately $1.6 \times 10^{7}\,\text{K}$. Suggest why such a high temperature is necessary for this reaction to take place.
(b)
One nuclear reaction that takes place in the core of the Sun is represented by the equation $^{2}_{1}\text{H} + {}^{1}_{1}\text{H} \rightarrow {}^{3}_{2}\text{He} + \text{energy}$. Data for the nuclei are given in Fig. 8.1.