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Homework Statement
Explain why stage 1 and 2 of the triple alpha process will not being until the core Temp of the star is around 10^8K.
Homework Equations
4He+4He = 8Be (step 1)
8Be+4He = 12C (Step 2)
The Attempt at a Solution
I "think" I need to work out the nuclear energies... However I am a little stuck on how to do this. This is a marked assignment so I'd appreciate a nudge in the right direction, rather than any form of a solution.
I have a suspicion that I need to use T^v, where v = (EG/4kT)^1/3 - 2/3; where EG is the gammon energy. However I would like just a heads up if this is the right idea.
Thanks