How many helium atoms must undergo fusion at 100 million K in the helium flash?

Question

A.Two
B.Three
C.Four
D.Six
E.It varies with density

Answer 1

Depending on how your question is intended and what you are looking for, the answer would be either B or E. If the question you are asking is referring to the Triple Alpha Process, the method of fusion in the helium flash, then the answer is B as it takes 3 helium nuclei to form 1 carbon nucleus. But if you are talking about total number of atoms, the answer would be E in that it varies depending on mass which is part of density.