The triple-alpha process and the alpha process are classes of nuclear fusion reactions within stars as they convert the helium element into heavier elements.

The triple-alpha process is "a set of nuclear fusion reactions by which three helium nuclei (alpha particles) are transformed into carbon."

It is a process that occurs only in the red-giant phase of stars as the internal temperature grows as its age increases after it has consumed its core hydrogen fuel.

The alpha process can involve the conversion of helium into other heavier elements.

For a full explanation of the processes and differences, I recommend reading these two articles and their child-pages:

Alpha Process
Triple-alpha Process
Source(s):
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Triple-alpha_process
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alpha_process
http://csep10.phys.utk.edu/astr162/lect/energy/triplealph.html

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