Question

What does the production of carbon from helium fusion in stellar cores demonstrate?

Options

• How heavy elements split apart to release energy in stellar interiors

• How heavier elements can be produced in stars through successive fusion stages

• How the Coulomb barrier completely prevents element formation beyond helium

• How stars radiate energy without any nuclear reactions taking place

Answer 1

When helium nuclei fuse to form carbon nuclei at about \[10^{8}\] K, this demonstrates how heavier elements can be produced in stars through successive fusion stages. Elements beyond helium are built up step by step as the core evolves.