28
QuizMultiple Choice

N/A — Exam

Question 28 • Physics in the Universe

What is the best prediction for what will happen when all of the hydrogen in the Sun has undergone fusion?

Answer
A
Helium nuclei will split to form hydrogen, and the Sun will continue to release energy.
B
Helium nuclei will fuse to create heavier elements, and the Sun will continue to release energy.
C
Helium nuclei will split to form hydrogen, and the Sun will no longer release energy.
D
Helium nuclei will fuse to create heavier elements, but the Sun will no longer release energy.

Explanation

When the Sun uses up the hydrogen in its core, it will eventually begin fusing helium nuclei into heavier elements. Fusion releases energy, so the Sun will continue to release energy during this stage. Helium does not split to recreate hydrogen, making the choices that describe splitting incorrect.

AI-written and checked against the verified answer.

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