Big Bang Theory and the Formation of Elements

Flashcards about the Big Bang Theory and the Formation of Elements.

Big Bang Theory

Scientists believe that the formation of the universe began through the explosion of a primordial atom which happened 13 billion years ago.

Big Bang Theory

A theory that explains the continuous expansion of the universe.

Big bang nucleosynthesis

Protons and neutrons combined in this process to form light elements such as H and He.

Stellar nucleosynthesis

The formation of elements in the center of the star.

Nebula

A giant cloud of dust and gas in space.

Protostar

Young star; still accumulates mass to become bigger.

Main sequence star

Converts hydrogen atom to produce helium atom at its core.

Red giant

As it cools, it changes its color and glows redder.

White dwarf

A star becomes this after it has exhausted its nuclear fuel.

Black dwarf

All that is left after a white dwarf burns all of its heat but retains mass.

Red super giant

Largest stars

Supernova

Explosion of stars that releases large amount of energy dispersing elements into space.

Neutron star

Smallest star, believed to be formed from supernova explosion.

Black hole

A region in space where there is extremely intense gravity from which nothing, not even light can escape