What is stellar nucleosynthesis?
A)the formation of heavier elements inside stars
B)the formation of planetary nebulae by red giants
C)the formation of stars from a nucleus of contracting material
D)the formation of white dwarfs, neutron stars, and black holes from stars
E)the process by which stars form interstellar dust

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Stellar nucleosynthesis is the process by which stars produce heavier elements through fusion reactions in their core. As a star consumes hydrogen, it fuses its nuclei together to create helium, and as it runs out of hydrogen fuel, it begins to fuse helium into heavier elements such as carbon, oxygen, and nitrogen. The process continues as the star gets hotter and denser, eventually creating even heavier elements like iron. Stellar nucleosynthesis is the process by which heavier elements are formed inside stars through fusion reactions. This process begins with the fusion of hydrogen into helium, which releases energy and powers the star. As the star evolves and fuses heavier elements, it can produce elements up to iron. Supernova explosions can then create even heavier elements through rapid neutron capture.

What Is Stellar Nucleosynthesis