1.1.3 Review Questions

The Sun and other stars are powered by nuclear fusion. Which of these statements correctly describes one of the processes that occur during nuclear fusion in stars?

• Helium nuclei combine to become a hydrogen nucleus, releasing energy.

• Hydrogen nuclei combine to become a helium nucleus, absorbing energy.

• Hydrogen nuclei combine to become a helium nucleus, releasing energy.

• Four helium nuclei combine to become a hydrogen nucleus, absorbing energy.

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NGSS.HS-ESS1-3

A student observes the Milky Way galaxy in the night sky. Which characteristic of the galaxy makes it visible?

• Billions of stars in the galaxy carry out nuclear fusion.

• Tons of compressed matter begin to radiate visible light from the galaxy center.

• The galaxy spins at a speed that generates a large amount of molecular friction.

• The galaxy’s stellar nebulae reflect the Sun’s light.

Which accurately describes the process stars use to convert matter into energy?

• Atoms split, decreasing the average size of atomic nuclei.

• Atoms release electrons to form positive ions.

• Atoms acquire electrons to form negative ions.

• Atoms fuse, increasing the average size of atomic nuclei

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Which of the following correctly describes how the Sun produces energy?

• One hydrogen atom and one lithium atom divide into one helium atom.

• One hydrogen atom and four helium atoms divide into one lithium atom.

• Hydrogen atoms combine into one helium atom.

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Which of these statements is MOST accurate about the Sun?

• It has an infinite energy supply

• It is near the end of its life cycl

• It is in its infancy in terms of energy consumption.

• It has consumed approximately one-half of its expendable energy.

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A student reads the following statement about star formation.

Matter in a stellar nebula begins to give off heat and light when it reaches a temperature of 15,000,000°C.

Why is this temperature necessary for a star to begin radiating energy?

• Carbon nuclei remain stable until high temperatures are reache

• Hydrogen atoms require high temperatures for the nuclei to fuse.

• High temperatures provide the energy needed for combustion to begin.

• High temperatures are needed to increase the kinetic energy of heavy atoms

In which layer of the Sun does nuclear fusion occur?

• core

• radiative zone

• convection zone

• chromosphere

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