Are Most Star Systems Composed Mainly of Light Elements?

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SUMMARY

Most star systems are primarily composed of light elements, with heavy elements originating from various processes, including supernovae and neutron star collisions. While supernovae contribute significantly to the abundance of heavy elements in the universe, they are not the sole source. Ancient stars, which did not undergo supernova events, exhibit lower levels of heavy elements, indicating a complex history of nucleosynthesis. The incorporation of these elements into the formation of stars and planets is a multi-generational process.

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  • Understanding of nucleosynthesis processes
  • Familiarity with supernova mechanics
  • Knowledge of neutron star collisions and their impact on element formation
  • Basic concepts of stellar evolution and metallicity
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  • Research the role of neutron star collisions in element formation
  • Explore the concept of metallicity in stars and its implications
  • Study the nucleosynthesis processes in different types of stars
  • Investigate the lifecycle of ancient stars and their contribution to the chemical composition of the universe
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Astronomers, astrophysicists, and anyone interested in the origins of elements in the universe and the processes that shape star systems.

David Fosco
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TL;DR
Looking for a root question of life on other planets.
If we were made from a Supernova (all our heavy elements) does that mean most star systems are made up of just a few of the first elements encluding planets?
Thanks for your time.
 
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There's a very germane article on Wikipedia. Short answer, supernovas are not the only source.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nucleosynthesis

1609120651503.png


Edit: see also
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Metallicity
 
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Supernovas blasted heavy elements all over the galaxy. They were incorporated into the Sun (and planets) at the time of their formation.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Abundance_of_the_chemical_elements#Universe
Our elements may have been through several "generations" of supernovas.
There are some ancient early generation stars (not big enough to supernova) that are low in heavy elements.
 

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