An Introduction to Modern Astrophysics · Problem 11.2
The Interstellar Medium and Star Formation — Carroll & Ostlie
Physics — Astrophysics · solar-mass-loss
Problem
(a) At what rate is the Sun's mass decreasing due to nuclear reactions? Express your answer in solar masses per year.
(b) Compare your answer to part (a) with the mass loss rate due to the solar wind.
(c) Assuming that the solar wind mass loss rate remains constant, would either mass loss process significantly affect the total mass of the Sun over its entire main-sequence lifetime?