Question

In the "4p" nuclear fusion reaction 4 nuclei of Hydrogen (i.e. 4 protons) fuse into 1 nucleus of Helium, emitting energy. Describe qualitatively (i.e. in words) the reaction: how is it possible to overcome the electric repulsive force? What is the nuclear force? How is the energy generated?

Answer 1

The proton–proton chain reaction is one of two known sets of nuclear fusion reactions by which stars convert hydrogen to helium and it occurs at very high temperature. The proton–proton fusion can occur only if the kinetic energy (i.e. temperature) of the protons is high enough to overcome their mutual electrostatic or Coulomb repulsion.

The nuclear force (also known as strong forces or nucleon–nucleon interaction) is a force that acts between the protons and neutrons (nucleons) of atoms. It is is one of the four basic forces in nature.

During the fusion process, there will be a difference in mass between the four proton and the products. The mass difference will be when converted to energy ( E = mc²) and it will come out as fusion energy. The fusion of four proton will produce nearly 26.7 MeV of energy.