Energy Released in Thermonuclear Runaway of 1 Solar Mass White Dwarf

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on calculating the energy released during a thermonuclear runaway in a 1 solar mass white dwarf, specifically when converting 0.5 solar masses of carbon (A=12) into iron (A=56). The fundamental equation used for this calculation is Einstein's mass-energy equivalence formula, E=mc². The process involves fusing lighter elements into heavier ones, resulting in a net release of energy due to the binding energy differences between the isotopes. The confusion arises from the assumption that the mass of the resulting iron is equal to the mass of the carbon consumed, which is incorrect as energy is released in the fusion process.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Einstein's mass-energy equivalence (E=mc²)
  • Basic knowledge of nuclear fusion processes
  • Familiarity with atomic mass units (A=12 for carbon, A=56 for iron)
  • Concept of binding energy in nuclear reactions
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the principles of nuclear fusion and energy release in stellar environments
  • Research the binding energy differences between carbon and iron isotopes
  • Explore the implications of thermonuclear runaways in astrophysics
  • Learn about the lifecycle of white dwarfs and their evolution
USEFUL FOR

Astronomy students, astrophysicists, and anyone interested in stellar evolution and nuclear fusion processes in white dwarfs.

erogard
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Hi everyone,

Ok this got to be a very simple question...

"Calculate the energy released if a 1 solar mass white dwarf undergoes a thermonuclear runaway and converts 0.5 solar masses of carbon (A=12) to iron (A=56)."

I know I'm supposed to use e=mc², but I would like to know what the reaction actually is.
We start with 1/2 solar mass of C and get X solar mass of iron. Are we assuming X is 1/2?
Also aren't we converting lighter atoms to heavier ones? Then how could energy be released in such a process?

Just a little bit confused. Any help would be appreciated.
 
Last edited:
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anyone? =/
 
Light atoms fuse and so you have fewer of them as heavier fused atoms. (I can hear you slapping your forehead).
 

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