2006-11-15 04:05:24 · 7 answers · asked by Shylaja R 1 in Science & Mathematics ➔ Astronomy & Space
The sun "burns" on the concept of nuclear fussion, where hydrogen is converted to helium. Once all hydrogen has been converted it then produces lithium and all other elements in the periodic table until iron.
This process creates energy and is what you are referring to as "burning".
Nuclear fussion is a nuclear reaction. Processes like creating a fire are chemical reactions involing oxygen
2006-11-15 04:08:15 · answer #1 · answered by Oz 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Combustion which is the kind of burning you're concerned with requires oxygen, heat and a flammable material. The sun produces light and heat by using gravity to compress hydrogen sufficiently to cause thermonuclear fusion and produce helium as a product. Air isn't needed for this process since the process occurs at the nuclear level.
2006-11-15 04:11:17 · answer #2 · answered by bardmere 5 · 2⤊ 0⤋
The sun is not burning.
It is a fusion reaction. Hydrogen combining to create helium and in the process releasing lots of energy. It just needs hydrogen as fuel. No other fuel is needed.
2006-11-15 04:08:08 · answer #3 · answered by A.Mercer 7 · 2⤊ 0⤋
The sun fuses hydrogen into helium in its core. This is a nuclear reaction, not a chemical one, and thus does not need air. This is what makes all stars, including the sun, shine.
2006-11-15 04:06:55 · answer #4 · answered by Roman Soldier 5 · 2⤊ 0⤋
Nuclear fusion. Hydrogen atoms are fused into helium to produce energy. It doesn't need oxygen.
2006-11-15 06:01:10 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Nuclear fusion of hydrogen, I believe.
2006-11-15 04:06:58 · answer #6 · answered by JoeSalsa 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
sun is comprised of plasma - carries its own fuel
2006-11-15 11:17:36 · answer #7 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋