Question

Write down the overall effect of the carbon cycle (as was done for the proton-proton cycle in 2e⁻+4¹H→⁴He+2νₑ+6γ). Note the number of protons (1H) required, and assume that the positrons (e⁺) annihilate electrons to form more γ rays.

a) 4¹H→⁴He+2e⁺+2νₑ+6γ

b) 4¹H+2e⁻→⁴He+2νₑ+6γ

c) 4¹H+2νₑ→⁴He+2e⁺+6γ

d) 4¹H+2e⁺→⁴He+2νₑ+6γ

Answer 1

The overall effect of the carbon cycle is the fusion of four hydrogen nuclei and two electrons to form a helium nucleus, two neutrinos, and six gamma rays.

Step-by-step explanation:

The overall effect of the carbon cycle is 4¹H + 2e⁻ → ⁴He + 2νₑ + 6γ.

This means that four hydrogen nuclei (protons) and two electrons combine to form a helium nucleus, two neutrinos, and six gamma rays.

The number of protons required in this process is four, and the positrons annihilate electrons to form more gamma rays.