Assuming the closest approach distance is the same ( ) for both cases

PHYSICS · Single correct · A Level · Physics · Nuclear physics · Nuclear physics

Problem

Assuming the closest approach distance is the same (

3.0\,\text{fm}

) for both cases, what is the ratio of the minimum ignition temperatures required for the fusion of two alpha particles (

\alpha

–

\alpha

) to that for two protons (p–p)? (Charges:

q_{\mathrm p}=+e

q_{\alpha}=+2e

) (a)

2

(b)

4

(c)

1

(d)

8