How has the present mix of chemical elements in the universe been produced?
A)All the known elements have been formed by the radioactive breakup of the heavy elements formed in the initial Big Bang.
B)All of the known elements were formed in the Big Bang.
C)H and He were formed in the Big Bang, while the heavier elements have been slowly forming by collisions in cold interstellar gas clouds.
D)H and some He were formed in the Big Bang, while the heavier elements have been slowly formed in the centers of stars over the life of the universe.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The present mix of chemical elements in the universe has been produced by the combination of two processes: the Big Bang and stellar fusion. The Big Bang produced mostly hydrogen and helium, while heavier elements have been produced in the centers of stars through the process of fusion. This process involves the collision and fusion of atomic nuclei, which results in the formation of heavier elements. Over time, some of these heavier elements are expelled back into space, where they mix with the interstellar medium and can eventually form new stars and planetary systems. Therefore, D is the best choice, as it accurately describes the contribution of both the Big Bang and stellar fusion to the creation of the present mix of chemical elements in the universe.

How Has the Present Mix of Chemical Elements in the Universe