Which statements are TRUE about energy and matter in stars? Select the three correct answers.(2 points)

Question

Responses

Energy in stars causes the fusion of light elements.

All energy is converted into matter in stars.

Some matter is converted into energy within stars.

Only matter is conserved within stars.

Energy and matter are both conserved in stars.

Only energy is conserved within stars.

Answer 1

The three true statements about energy and matter in stars are:

1. Energy in stars causes the fusion of light elements. - The high temperatures and pressures in stars allow for nuclear fusion, where light elements (like hydrogen) are fused into heavier elements, releasing energy in the process.

2. Some matter is converted into energy within stars. - According to Einstein's equation \(E=mc^2\), some of the mass of the fused light elements is converted into energy, which is released as radiation.

3. Energy and matter are both conserved in stars. - In a broader sense, while energy can be converted to matter and vice versa, the total energy and total matter in a closed system (like the universe) remains constant, adhering to the conservation laws.

The other statements (that all energy is converted into matter, only matter or only energy is conserved, etc.) are not accurate in the context of star behavior and physical laws.