How do atoms form? A physicist explains where the atoms that make up everything around come from

Why did they form at that time? Astronomers know from observing distant exploding stars that the size of the universe has ...
Astronomy

My astronomy book reads, “Heavy-element fusion in massive stars ends with iron.” How are elements heavier than iron in the periodic table created?

Neutron capture in iron nuclei occurs in high-energy environments such as supernovae. Neutron capture results in the conversion of a neutron into a proton, an electron, and an antineutrino. This ...
Astronomy on MSN

The universe's guide to creating elements

Many space-lovers know the phrase "We are all made of star stuff." And it's true - our planet formed from the dust cloud left ...
Forbes

Ask Ethan: Can Normal Stars Make Elements Heavier (And Less Stable) Than Iron?

Forbes contributors publish independent expert analyses and insights. The Universe is out there, waiting for you to discover it. There are some 90+ elements of the periodic table that occur naturally ...
Physics World

Could lasers synthesize heavy elements produced in neutron-star mergers?

The experimental campaign on the neutron generation at Apollon: The inside of the target chamber showing the off-axis parabola and some diagnostics. (Courtesy: Julien Fuchs) An astrophysical process ...

Where did the gold on Earth come from – and is the Universe still making more?

But most of the gold on Earth isn’t in our hands; it’s deep underground. During the planet’s formation, heavy elements like gold and platinum sank toward the molten iron core. Geologists estimate that ...
HeraldNet

Scientists search for origins of periodic table’s 118 elements

Since the invention of the periodic table 150 years ago this month, scientists have worked to fill in the rows of elements and make sense of their properties. But researchers have also pursued a ...