Question

Which of the following statements best explains the relationship between stars and the elements that exist on Earth?

a Heavier elements on Earth came from the deaths of smaller stars; lighter elements on Earth came from the deaths of larger stars.
b All elements on Earth came from the deaths of larger stars, like blue giant stars.
c All elements on Earth came from the deaths of smaller stars, like yellow dwarf stars.
d Heavier elements on Earth came from the deaths of larger stars; lighter elements on Earth came from the deaths of smaller stars.

Answer 1

Heavier elements on Earth arise from nucleosynthesis in larger stars and their subsequent supernova explosions, while lighter elements come from both the Big Bang and the red giant stage of smaller stars.

Step-by-step explanation:

The relationship between stars and the elements on Earth can best be described by the processes that take place during the lifespan of stars, particularly massive ones. Heavier elements on Earth, such as silicon, iron, and precious metals like gold and silver, are forged in the hearts of large stars through nuclear reactions involving carbon, oxygen, and other elements. This process, known as nucleosynthesis, occurs late in the lives of these massive stars or during the violent supernova explosions that signify their deaths, sending these newly formed elements into space. Conversely, lighter elements, including hydrogen and some helium, were produced during the Big Bang, with stars later contributing additional helium and elements as heavy as carbon and oxygen during their red giant stage.

Therefore, the correct answer is that heavier elements on Earth came from the deaths of larger stars; lighter elements on Earth came from the deaths of smaller stars.