Gold and heavy metals creation

In summary, the conversation discusses the production of gold in the sun and its occurrence on Earth. It is suggested that gold is more likely to be produced in a supernova and that elements separate due to their differing densities. The formation of mineral concentrations, such as gold veins, is also discussed. The influence of meteors and volcanic activity on the distribution of elements in the Earth's crust is considered. Several resources are recommended for further reading on the topic.
  • #1
dragoneyes001
216
23
I asked this in another thread and was told this question should have had its own thread so as to not hijack the other thread.
That question was: Has anyone calculated how much if any gold is produced in the sun? which is likely almost none do to the differences between fusion and fission and the creation of random/not so random elements in the processes of each. the answer I received from the other thread was that gold is more likely to be produced in a super nova...which makes sense yet in that case we'd have to expect gold to be in pretty small individual groups if not just fragments?

After thinking this over some I had a few other questions about gold such as how does the element attract to itself since on Earth we find gold in veins more often than not accompanied by quarts veins. if the element is a product of random chance (so to speak) what made it collect in batches during the molten rock stage before it becomes a vein? also why are gold and quarts found as somewhat partners during the forming of stone?
 
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  • #2
Hi. This is just a quick comment rather than a real answer. Fusion stops when iron is produced. Heavier elements can't do it. Transmutation occurs under special conditions (nova or supernova) wherein neutrons are captured by the nuclei of iron and its descendants rather than causing a chain reaction explosion. That's drastically simplified from what really happens, but maybe will give you an idea.
 
  • #4
dragoneyes001 said:
which makes sense yet in that case we'd have to expect gold to be in pretty small individual groups if not just fragments?
I don't quite follow the question here. Could you perhaps rephrase?

As for the second part, have a look here:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ore_genesis
It's a fascinating read. In short, mineral concentrations can form in a number of processes, including precipitation from mineral-bearing deep water along faults (to form veins), crystallisation from magma as it cools (allowing different minerals to crystallise at different times), and even due to bacterial activity (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Delftia_acidovorans).

These pages might be of use as well:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gold#Occurrence
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vein_(geology)
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lode
 
  • #5
@Bandersnatch what i meant was in a nova you'd expect most of the effluent from the explosion to be on a near molecular size or dust sized with some larger groups obviously mixed in. stuff to create the clouds which we believe created planets and stars. using the precipitation. elements like gold would accumulate at depths their densities dictate among other elements positions (like oil floating on water...etc...). at the time of the Earth's crust being formed just how much would meteors striking the planet at that period have affected the distribution of elements within the crust? or was the volcanic activity the greater influence for the distribution?

PS. thanks for the links.

 
  • #6
Ah, o.k.
To answer you question, I think it's supposed to be all from meteors from after the crust solidified. What sunk earlier, sunk to the core of the planet, so volcanism can't be sensibly expected to drege it up.
 
  • #7
yeah makes sense thank you.
 
  • #8
Principles of Geochemistry, Mason will give you an overview of cosmic, terrestrial, and crustal abundances and differentiation hypotheses.
 
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Likes jim mcnamara

What is the process of creating gold and other heavy metals?

The creation of gold and other heavy metals is a complex process that involves a series of nuclear reactions. Specifically, it is formed through a process called nuclear fusion, where lighter elements are fused together under extreme heat and pressure to create heavier elements, such as gold.

Where are gold and heavy metals typically found in nature?

Gold and heavy metals are typically found in nature as ores, which are rocks or minerals that contain a high concentration of the desired metal. They can also be found in small amounts in the Earth's crust, and in some cases, in meteorites and other extraterrestrial rocks.

How long does it take for gold and heavy metals to be created?

The process of creating gold and heavy metals can take millions of years. It usually begins with the formation of stars, where the initial elements are created through nuclear fusion. As these stars die and explode, the elements are scattered into space and eventually form new stars and planets, including our own.

Are there any other ways to create gold and heavy metals besides nuclear fusion?

While nuclear fusion is the primary way that gold and heavy metals are created in nature, there are also other methods of creating them, such as through nuclear fission or particle bombardment. However, these methods are not as efficient or sustainable as nuclear fusion.

What are some uses for gold and other heavy metals?

Gold and heavy metals have a wide range of uses in various industries, including jewelry making, electronics, and dentistry. They are also used in scientific research and in space exploration. Additionally, some heavy metals have important industrial applications, such as in the production of steel and other alloys.

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