8.1.2

The Sun

Test yourself

The Sun

The Sun was formed from a cloud of dust and gas (called a nebula). The forces of gravity pulled the dust and gas together.

Illustrative background for Cloud of gas and dustIllustrative background for Cloud of gas and dust ?? "content

Cloud of gas and dust

  • The gas and dust collapsed.
    • The cloud suddenly decreased in volume as the pressure in the cloud increased.
    • This formed a protostar.
Illustrative background for Main sequenceIllustrative background for Main sequence ?? "content

Main sequence

  • Materials continued to collide (come together) until the temperature and pressure were high enough for hydrogen nuclei to start fusing and form helium (in nuclear fusion).
  • The star then went into a stable period, called a ‘main star sequence’.
Illustrative background for Nuclear fusionIllustrative background for Nuclear fusion ?? "content

Nuclear fusion

  • The energy released from the nuclear fusion in the Sun keeps the Sun’s core hot.
Illustrative background for StableIllustrative background for Stable ?? "content

Stable

  • The Sun is still in its stable main sequence phase.
  • In this phase, the outward force of the energy released by nuclear fusion is balanced by the force of gravity pulling the Sun inwards.

Jump to other topics

1Energy

2Electricity

3Particle Model of Matter

4Atoms & Radiation

5Forces

5.1Basics of Motion

5.2Forces

5.3Effects of Forces

5.4Pressure

6Waves

7Magnetism

8Astrophysics

Go student ad image

Unlock your full potential with GoStudent tutoring

  • Affordable 1:1 tutoring from the comfort of your home

  • Tutors are matched to your specific learning needs

  • 30+ school subjects covered

Book a free trial lesson