ExploraTour: A Peek into the Lives of the Stars
How are Heavy Elements Created in The Supernova Blast?
The collapse of the core creates a shock wave that propagates outward and blows the outer layers of the star off. Neutrons are created in the blast wave that results. These neutrons can attach themselves to the nuclei of lighter elements, created during fusion in the core, to produce elements heavier than iron.
The stellar material, rich in heavy elements, is returned explosively to interstellar space. This hot bubble of gas will eventually be used in the formation of new young stars and be incorporated in their planetary systems. The iron may become an element in the blood and calcium a part of the bones of intelligent lifeforms that develop there to watch the next supernova explosion.