Question

1. (1 pts) what happens in step 2 of nuclear fusion as it occurs in the sun?

Explanation:

In the Sun's nuclear fusion (proton - proton chain), Step 2 involves the reaction of a deuterium nucleus ($_1^2H$) with a proton ($_1^1H$). The reaction is $_1^2H+_1^1H
ightarrow _2^3He+\gamma$, where a deuterium and a proton combine to form a helium - 3 nucleus and a gamma ray photon. This step is part of the process to build up heavier nuclei from lighter ones (protons) to eventually form helium - 4, releasing energy in the process.

Answer:

In Step 2 of the Sun's nuclear fusion (proton - proton chain), a deuterium nucleus ($_1^2H$) combines with a proton ($_1^1H$) to form a helium - 3 nucleus ($_2^3He$) and a gamma ray photon, via the reaction $_1^2H + _1^1H
ightarrow _2^3He+\gamma$.