Thermonuclear fusion in the Sun

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the mechanisms of thermonuclear fusion in the Sun, specifically focusing on the proton-proton chain reaction and discrepancies between theoretical predictions and observational data, particularly regarding solar neutrino emissions.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants describe the proton-proton chain reaction and its associated fusion processes occurring in the Sun.
  • There is mention of a problem arising from a mismatch between calculated values and observational data, though the specific 'something' is not identified.
  • One participant suggests that the issue may relate to solar neutrino emissions, referencing the solar neutrino problem.
  • Another participant emphasizes the importance of allowing the original poster to clarify their statement rather than making assumptions.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants have not reached a consensus on what specific observation is being referred to in the original question, indicating a lack of agreement on the interpretation of the problem.

Contextual Notes

The discussion highlights uncertainties regarding the relationship between theoretical predictions of fusion processes and actual observational data, particularly in the context of solar neutrinos.

rahulrathod
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Q. Our present theory of the sun and the mechanism of
thermonuclear fusion inside it predicts that the following reactions
occur in the sun.
1H + 1H --> 2H + antielectron + neutrino
1H + 1H --> 2H + antielectron + neutrino
electron + antielectron --> photon + photon
electron + antielectron --> photon + photon
2H + 1H --> 3He + photon
2H + 1H --> 3He + photon
3He + 3He --> 4He + 1H+ 1H
A problem arises in this theory due to one of its calculated
count of something not matching with the observational counting. So
what is that ‘something’ and what is the relation between the
prediction and observation (i.e. greater or smaller)?
 
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rahulrathod said:
Q. Our present theory of the sun and the mechanism of
thermonuclear fusion inside it predicts that the following reactions
occur in the sun.
1H + 1H --> 2H + antielectron + neutrino
1H + 1H --> 2H + antielectron + neutrino
electron + antielectron --> photon + photon
electron + antielectron --> photon + photon
2H + 1H --> 3He + photon
2H + 1H --> 3He + photon
3He + 3He --> 4He + 1H+ 1H
A problem arises in this theory due to one of its calculated
count of something not matching with the observational counting. So
what is that ‘something’ and what is the relation between the
prediction and observation (i.e. greater or smaller)?
One is describing the proton-proton chain reaction.
http://csep10.phys.utk.edu/astr162/lect/energy/ppchain.html

Please explain the statement "A problem arises in this theory due to one of its calculated count of something not matching with the observational counting." What is the observation to which one is referring?

Much of the fusion occurs in the core of the sun. The gamma radiation must migrate outward and in the process, photons undergo Compton scattering.

The fact that p+p fusion has such as low cross-section or probability is the reason that a star can exist for 100 of millions or billions of years.
 
Astronuc said:
Please explain the statement "A problem arises in this theory due to one of its calculated count of something not matching with the observational counting." What is the observation to which one is referring?

I'm guessing it refers to solar neutrino emissions:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Solar_neutrino_problem"
 
Last edited by a moderator:
Let's not guess what the OP means; it's better to let him clarify.
 

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