The Sun

surface (photosphere)

The layer of the sun where photons escape, characterized by sunspots and being thin.

center (core)

The innermost layer of the sun where nuclear fusion occurs, generating immense heat and energy.

nuclear fusion

The process occurring only in the core where hydrogen atoms combine to form helium, releasing energy.

proton-proton chain (PP chain)

A series of fusion reactions where hydrogen nuclei fuse to form helium, releasing positrons and neutrinos.

radiative zone

The layer where energy from the core is transported outward through radiation, taking thousands of years for photons to reach outer layers.

convective zone

The outer layer of the sun's interior where energy is transported by convection, involving rising hot plasma and sinking cooler plasma.

temperature gradient

The difference in temperature that drives convection currents in the convective zone, contributing to energy transfer to the surface.

chromosphere

The layer above the photosphere, known for its reddish glow during solar eclipses and its role in solar phenomena.

corona

The outermost layer of the sun's atmosphere, visible during total solar eclipses, with high temperatures influencing solar wind.