Quantum physics
Quantum Tunneling
The quantum ability of a particle to cross an energy barrier it classically could not surmount. Tunnelling lets protons in the Sun's core fuse despite their electrical repulsion — without it the Sun could not shine — and it is central to the theory of how radiation escapes a black hole.
Highlights
- ›Lets the Sun's core fuse — without it, no starlight
Related physics & astronomy
Knowledge connections
- Associated withThe Wave Function
- Associated withThe Solar Core
- Associated withHawking Radiation
Sources
The primary and reference sources this topic draws on.
- NASANational Aeronautics and Space Administration
Mission data, planetary science, space telescopes, and public-domain imagery.
Most NASA-produced imagery is in the public domain; individual items are checked for usage terms before publication.