Creation of Elements
Physics: AQA GCSE Higher, topic 8.1.9
Creation of Elements
The fusion processes in stars produce all of the naturally occurring elements. Different size stars produce different elements.
All stars
- All stars fuse hydrogen nuclei into helium in nuclear fusion.
Large stars
- Larger stars fuse hydrogen nuclei into lithium and other light metals.
Supernovae
- A supernova produces enough energy for hydrogen nuclei to form elements heavier than iron.
Test yourself on Creation of Elements
Which of these can produce elements heavier than iron, such as uranium and gold?