The nuclear reaction that powers the sun is the fusion of four protons into a he

Question

The nuclear reaction that powers the sun is the fusion of four protons into a helium nucleus. The process involves several steps, but the net reaction is simply 4p4He+energy. The mass of a helium nucleus is known to be 6.64×1027kg.

Part A

How much energy is released in each fusion?

Express your answer to one significant figure and include the appropriate units.

Part B

What fraction of the initial rest mass energy is this energy?

Express your answer using one significant figure.

Show the steps, thanks.

Explanation / Answer

A. the mass of proton = 1.67x10^-27 kg

the energy = (4*1.67x10^-27-6.64x10^-27) c^2 = 0.04x10^-27*9.0x10^16

= 4 x10^-12 J

B.

0.04/(4*1.67) = 1/167 = 0.006

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