Open In App

What is the Mass of Sun?

Last Updated : 18 Mar, 2024
Improve
Improve
Like Article
Like
Save
Share
Report

Answer: The mass of the Sun is approximately 1.989×1030 kilograms.

The mass of the Sun, the central star of our solar system, is approximately 1.989×1030 kilograms. This colossal mass accounts for about 99.86% of the total mass in our solar system, with planets, moons, asteroids, and other celestial bodies constituting the remaining fraction.

Determining the mass of the Sun is critical for understanding the dynamics of the solar system, as the Sun’s gravitational force governs the orbits and motions of all surrounding objects. Scientists have employed various methods to calculate the Sun’s mass, including observations of planetary orbits, gravitational effects on comets, and measurements of the Sun’s gravitational pull on spacecraft.

The Sun’s mass is primarily composed of hydrogen (about 74% by mass) and helium (about 24% by mass), with trace amounts of heavier elements. The intense nuclear fusion reactions in the Sun’s core convert hydrogen into helium, releasing an immense amount of energy in the form of light and heat. This energy sustains life on Earth and influences the entire solar system.


Like Article
Suggest improvement
Share your thoughts in the comments

Similar Reads