The scarcity of what isotope is a critical test of the density of the present cosmos?
A)carbon 14
B)deuterium
C)helium 3
D)helium 4
E)lithium 5

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Deuterium is the best choice as its scarcity is directly related to the density of the universe in its early stages. Its abundance depends on the balance between its production during Big Bang nucleosynthesis and its subsequent destruction in stars. Thus, measuring the amount of deuterium can provide important information about the early universe and its evolution. Deuterium, also known as heavy hydrogen, is a rare isotope that is important in determining the density of the universe. It is created during the Big Bang and requires a specific ratio of protons to neutrons in order to form. The abundance of deuterium can be measured in different regions of space, and this can provide valuable information about the density of matter in the universe.

The Scarcity of What Isotope Is a Critical Test of the Density