The heaviest nuclei of all are formed:
A)in the horizontal branch.
B)in dense white dwarfs.
C)during nova explosions.
D)in the ejection of matter in the planetary nebula.
E)in the core collapse that set the stage of Type II supernovae.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The ejection of heavy elements in the form of supernova explosions is responsible for the formation of the heaviest nuclei in the universe. Specifically, it is the core collapse that sets the stage for Type II supernovae that leads to the formation of these heavy elements. The heaviest nuclei are formed during the core collapse of massive stars, which sets the stage for Type II supernovae. During this process, extreme conditions in the core cause fusion of lighter elements into heavier elements, leading to the formation of elements like iron, cobalt, and nickel, as well as elements heavier than iron.

The Heaviest Nuclei of All Are Formed