Element Formation

Element formation, or nucleosynthesis, is the process by which atoms are created in the universe. It starts in the Big Bang, producing mostly hydrogen and helium. Inside stars, nuclear fusion merges these light elements into heavier ones like carbon, oxygen, and iron. When massive stars die in supernova explosions, they scatter these elements into space. Over time, gravity pulls these materials together to form planets, new stars, and other celestial objects. Essentially, element formation is the cosmic process of building the diverse atoms that make up all matter around us.