Assuming that in a star, three alpha particle join in a single fusion reaction to form `._(6)C^(12)` nucleus. Calculate the energy released in this reaction. Given mass of `._(2)He^(4)` is 4.002604 a.m.u. and that of `._(6)C^(12)` is 12 a.m.u. Take 1a.m.u. =931MeV.

Explanation

`(""_(2)He^(4)) =4.002604` amu
`(""_(6)He^(12)) = 12,000000` amu
The fusion reaction is shown as below:
`""_(2)He^(4) + ""_(2)He^(4) + ""_(2)He^(4) to ""_(6)C^(12) + Q`
Here, `Q = [3m(""_(2)He^(4)) - m(""_(6)C^(12))]c^(2)`
`=(3 xx 4.002604 - 12,000000) u xx c^(2)`
=7.27 MeV