Supernova nucleosynthesis is the process by which heavy elements are formed during the explosive death of massive stars, known as supernovae. This process plays a crucial role in enriching the interstellar medium with heavy elements like gold, uranium, and iron, which are essential for the formation of new stars and planetary systems. The extreme temperatures and pressures generated in a supernova facilitate nuclear reactions that create these heavy elements, impacting the chemical evolution of galaxies.
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