Concept
Core helium burning is a phase in the life cycle of a star where helium nuclei undergo fusion to form carbon and oxygen in the core, typically occurring after the hydrogen in the core has been exhausted. This process marks a stable period in the star's evolution, characterized by a balance between gravitational contraction and thermal pressure from nuclear fusion reactions.
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Concept
Helium burning is a nuclear fusion process in stars where helium nuclei fuse to form heavier elements like carbon and oxygen, marking a critical phase in stellar evolution after hydrogen burning. This process occurs in the core of stars with temperatures exceeding 100 million Kelvin and is pivotal in the lifecycle of stars, influencing their structure and eventual fate.
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