Why does stellar fusion end with an iron core?
A) The core becomes so hot it expands too much.
B) Iron cannot undergo fusion.
C) Iron does not produce energy when it undergoes fusion.
D) Iron requires such a high temperature for fusion that it does not occur inside stars.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Iron does not produce energy when it undergoes fusion because it has the highest binding energy per nucleon, making it the most stable element. Fusion of iron or heavier elements requires energy input rather than releasing energy, halting the fusion process in stars.

Why Does Stellar Fusion End with an Iron Core