Big Bang nucleosynthesis

Big Bang nucleosynthesis refers to the process that occurred within the first few minutes after the universe began, where the extreme heat and density enabled protons and neutrons to combine and form the universe’s first atomic nuclei. During this period, primarily hydrogen and helium nuclei were produced, along with small amounts of deuterium and lithium. This process set the initial chemical composition of the universe, shaping the elements available for star formation and future cosmic evolution. The predicted abundances of these primordial elements closely match what astronomers observe today, providing strong evidence for the Big Bang theory.