Heavy elements, such as those throughout Earth and within our bodies, appear to have been formed:
A)only during the initial Big Bang formation of the universe.
B)by radioactive decay here on Earth.
C)inside the Sun.
D)deep inside some now-vanished star.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Heavy elements, such as carbon, nitrogen, and iron, cannot have been formed during the Big Bang but were instead formed in stars through nuclear fusion. When a star runs out of fuel, it undergoes a supernova explosion, which releases heavy elements into space. These elements can then come together to form new stars and planets, like Earth, which are composed of these heavier elements. Therefore, the heavy elements within our bodies and the Earth are likely formed deep inside some now-vanished star.

Heavy Elements, Such as Those Throughout Earth and Within Our