Elements heavier than iron, such as gold and uranium, are primarily formed through neutron capture processes, specifically the rapid neutron capture process (r-process). The r-process, unlike the ...

Hydrogen and helium formed shortly after the Big Bang. Stars create elements lighter than iron through nuclear fusion. Supernovae produce elements heavier than iron via the r-process. Neutron star ...

Heavy duty: artist’s impression of a kilonova releasing r-process elements into the cosmos. (Courtesy: ESO/L Calçada/M Kornmesser) The mystery of where heavy elements such as gold and silver come from ...

Although the periodic table is filled with elements, nuclear fusion at the center of stars can only produce elements with atomic masses lower than iron—after than, neutron captures processes known as ...

When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Here’s how it works. The origin of the universe's heaviest elements has mystified scientists, but after Monday's (Oct.