Why is iron significant to understanding how a supernova occurs?
A)Iron is the heaviest of all atomic nuclei, and thus no heavier elements can be made.
B)The fusion of iron into uranium is the reaction that drives a supernova explosion.
C)Iron cannot release energy either by fission or fusion.
D)Supernovae often leave behind neutron stars, which are made mostly of iron.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Iron cannot release energy either by fission or fusion, which plays a crucial role in understanding how a supernova occurs. As a massive star exhausts its supply of nuclear fuel, it eventually forms a core of iron. Since iron cannot undergo fusion reactions to release energy, the core becomes unstable and collapses, leading to a supernova explosion.

Why Is Iron Significant to Understanding How a Supernova Occurs