The process by which protons are converted into helium atoms with a tremendous release of energy is called?

The process by which protons are converted into helium atoms with a tremendous release of energy is called "thermonuclear fusion". In this process, two light atomic nuclei combine to form a heavier nucleus, releasing a huge amount of energy in the form of light and heat. This is the same process that powers the sun and other stars. The high temperatures and pressures required for fusion to occur can only be achieved in stars or in controlled environments such as fusion reactors. Thermonuclear fusion is different from nuclear fission, which is the process of splitting a heavy nucleus into lighter nuclei with the release of energy. Thermionic emission and photoelectric emission are different processes that involve the emission of electrons from a material due to heating or exposure to light, respectively.