Question

elements heavier than hydrogen are formed when light elements undergo nuclear fusion. fusion takes place within stars at temperatures nearing 10^8k. explain why this high energy is required for fusion to occur.
a high temperatures result in high kinetic energy that is converted to the nuclear binding energy.
b high temperatures result in the high kinetic energy needed to overcome the repulsive force of the two nuclei.
c high temperatures result in high kinetic energy that in turn creates a strong electrostatic force between the two nuclei.
d high temperatures result in the high kinetic energy needed to produce the strong force required to hold the nuclei together.

Explanation:

Nuclear fusion requires light - element nuclei to come close enough to fuse. Nuclei are positively charged and repel each other due to electrostatic forces. High temperatures give the nuclei high kinetic energy, allowing them to overcome this repulsive force and get close enough for the strong nuclear force to bind them together.

Answer:

B. High temperatures result in the high kinetic energy needed to overcome the repulsive force of the two nuclei.