If the sun is only hydrogen and helium (no solid objects like dirt or rocks) then why is its gravity so extreme? Mass determines gravity

The gravitational force of the Sun is indeed influenced by its mass, which is primarily composed of hydrogen and helium. Gravity is a fundamental force in the universe, and its strength depends on the mass of an object. The Sun's mass is approximately 333,000 times that of Earth, accounting for about 99.86% of the total mass of our solar system. The intense gravity of the Sun is a result of the immense concentration of mass within it.

The process that generates this gravitational force is nuclear fusion occurring at the Sun's core. In the Sun's core, temperatures and pressures are so extreme that hydrogen atoms undergo fusion reactions, converting into helium and releasing an enormous amount of energy. This energy, in the form of light and heat, is what makes the Sun shine. The mass lost during these fusion reactions is converted into energy, following Einstein's famous equation, E=mc^2.

The concentration of mass in the Sun is critical for its gravitational pull. Gravity is not only influenced by mass but also by the distribution of that mass. In the case of the Sun, its mass is densely concentrated at its core. This concentration, combined with the vastness of the Sun's size, creates a gravitational field that extends far into space, affecting all the celestial bodies within our solar system.

The Sun's gravity is what holds the planets, including Earth, in orbit around it. The force of gravity is proportional to the product of the masses of two objects and inversely proportional to the square of the distance between their centers. Therefore, despite the Sun being composed mainly of hydrogen and helium, its enormous mass results in a powerful gravitational force that dominates the movements of nearby celestial bodies.

The gravitational influence of the Sun extends beyond just keeping planets in orbit. It plays a crucial role in shaping the structure of the entire solar system, influencing the trajectories of asteroids, comets, and other celestial objects. The Sun's gravity is a fundamental factor in the dynamics of the cosmos, governing the motion of celestial bodies and contributing to the overall stability of our solar system.

While the Sun lacks solid objects like dirt or rocks, it compensates with an overwhelming mass that dictates its gravitational strength. Gravity is a force that acts on all objects with mass, regardless of their composition. In the case of the Sun, the fusion of hydrogen into helium not only powers the Sun but also contributes to its mass, further amplifying its gravitational pull.

Understanding the Sun's gravity is crucial for comprehending the dynamics of celestial bodies within our solar system and, on a larger scale, the structure and evolution of galaxies. The gravitational interactions between celestial objects, guided by the Sun's immense gravity, shape the cosmic dance that defines our place in the universe.

In summary, the Sun's extreme gravity is a consequence of its massive concentration of hydrogen and helium, primarily fueled by nuclear fusion reactions at its core. This gravity influences the orbits and movements of all celestial bodies within our solar system, showcasing the profound impact of mass on the fundamental force of gravity in the cosmos.