Creation of Elements
Physics: Cambridge International GCSE Supplement, topic 6.2.5
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.
- The nebula from a supernova may form new stars with orbiting planets.
Test yourself on Creation of Elements
Which of these can produce elements heavier than iron, such as uranium and gold?