The sun is made up of about 99.9% hydrogen and helium, the two lightest and most abundant elements in the universe. Hydrogen makes up roughly 74% of the sun’s mass, while helium accounts for about 24%. These gases are in the form of hot plasma due to the sun’s extreme temperature.

The sun’s energy comes from nuclear fusion, where hydrogen atoms combine to form helium, releasing a huge amount of energy in the process. This energy powers the sun and provides light and heat to our solar system.

Other elements like oxygen, carbon, sulfur, and silicon are present but only in very small amounts, less than 1%. The dominance of hydrogen and helium is typical for stars like the sun.

Understanding the sun’s composition helps us learn how stars form, live, and eventually die. It also explains why the sun shines so brightly and how it supports life on Earth.

In summary, the sun is primarily made of hydrogen and helium, which fuel its immense power and light.