The last step in the carbon cycle that takes place inside stars is p + 15N → 12C + (?). This step releases 5.00 MeV of energy.
(a) Show that the reaction product "(?)" must be an a particle.
(b) Calculate the atomic mass of helium-4 from the information given.
(c) In order for this reaction to occur, the proton must come into contact with the nitrogen nucleus. Calculate the distance d between their centers when they just "touch."
(d) If the proton and nitrogen nucleus are initially far apart, what is the minimum value of their total kinetic energy necessary to bring the two into contact?