Proton Proton Reaction

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Proton Proton Reaction

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A thermonuclear reaction in which two protons collide at very high velocities and combine to form a deuteron. The resultant deuteron may capture another proton to form tritium and the latter may undergo proton capture to form helium. Compare carbon cycle. </dd>
The proton-proton reaction is now believed to be the principal source of energy within the sun and other stars of its class. A temperature of the order of 5 million degrees Kelvin and high hydrogen (proton) concentrations are required for this reaction to proceed at rates compatible with energy emission by such stars. </dd>

References

This article is based on NASA's Dictionary of Technical Terms for Aerospace Use