What is the sun primarily made of?

The sun is primarily composed of hydrogen and helium, which are the two lightest and most abundant elements in the universe. Hydrogen constitutes about 74% of the sun's mass, while helium makes up approximately 24%. This composition is essential for the sun's functioning, as it undergoes nuclear fusion in its core where hydrogen atoms combine to form helium. This process releases a tremendous amount of energy, which is what powers the sun and provides heat and light to our solar system.

The other elements mentioned, such as oxygen, nitrogen, carbon, sulfur, iron, and lead, are present in the sun but in much smaller quantities. These elements are important for understanding broader astrophysical processes and the composition of other celestial bodies, but they do not make up the majority of the sun's structure. Hence, the focus on hydrogen and helium is crucial for understanding what the sun is fundamentally made of.