Which of these is a heavy element in a star
Iron
Heavy elements are typically formed through nuclear fusion processes in the cores of stars. As such, heavy elements are present in the later stages of stellar evolution and are formed primarily through supernova explosions. Some examples of heavy elements found in stars include:
1. Iron (Fe): Iron is one of the heaviest elements produced in stars. It is formed through fusion reactions in the core of massive stars during their final stages of evolution.
2. Uranium (U): Uranium is a naturally occurring heavy element that is created primarily through the r-process (rapid neutron capture) during supernova explosions. It is not commonly found in stars but is seen in the remnants of supernovae, such as neutron stars or black holes.
3. Gold (Au): Gold is another heavy element that forms during the r-process in a supernova explosion. It is relatively rare in the universe but can be found in certain astronomical events such as neutron star mergers.
4. Lead (Pb): Lead is a heavy element that is created through a variety of stellar processes, including both supernova explosions and the s-process (slow neutron capture) in the interiors of evolved stars.
5. Plutonium (Pu): Plutonium is a synthetic heavy element created through nuclear reactions in laboratories. It does not occur naturally in stars.
It is important to note that the exact heavy elements present in a star depend on its mass, age, and stage of evolution.