Learn about the three most common types of nuclear reactions that occur in stars: fusion, neutron capture, and photodisintegration. Explore their applications in science and technology.

3 Most Common Types of Nuclear Reactions in Stars

Nuclear reactions are responsible for the energy production in stars. The high temperatures and pressures inside stars cause atoms to fuse together, releasing energy in the process. There are many types of nuclear reactions that occur in stars, but three are particularly important for understanding how stars work: fusion, neutron capture, and photodisintegration.

Fusion Reactions

Fusion reactions are the most well-known type of nuclear reactions in stars. In these reactions, two atomic nuclei come together to form a heavier nucleus. For example, in our Sun, hydrogen nuclei (protons) combine to form helium nuclei. This process releases a tremendous amount of energy in the form of light and heat, which is what makes the Sun shine.

Fusion reactions are possible in stars because of the high temperatures and pressures inside them. At these high temperatures and pressures, the atomic nuclei have enough energy to overcome their mutual repulsion and come together. However, fusion reactions require a lot of energy to get started, which is why they only occur in the cores of stars.

Neutron Capture Reactions

Neutron capture reactions occur when a nucleus captures a neutron. This can happen in stars when free neutrons are present. When a nucleus captures a neutron, it becomes a heavier isotope of the same element. For example, when a carbon nucleus captures a neutron, it becomes carbon-13.

Neutron capture reactions are important for understanding the synthesis of heavier elements in stars. When a nucleus captures a neutron, it can become unstable and undergo