The helium flash converts three helium nuclei to what heavier element?

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The helium flash converts three helium nuclei to what heavier element?

A.beryllium
B.boron
C.lithium
D.carbon
E.iron

2006-12-11 14:13:01 · 2 answers · asked by Liz 1 in Science & Mathematics ➔ Astronomy & Space

2 answers

D. Carbon

If two helium atoms fuse, it will form beryllium, but if a third fuses with the beryllium atom, it will form carbon. This is called the triple-alpha process.

2006-12-11 14:17:52 · answer #1 · answered by The Wired 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋

Helium, atomic number 2, meaning two protons.

Fuze three of 'em.
2+2+2=6

Six Protons = Carbon

2006-12-11 22:30:38 · answer #2 · answered by socialdeevolution 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋