This discovery is considered a major step towards understanding the formation of heavy elements in the universe.
There has been an exciting development in the world of science. Scientists have discovered an event that happens when neutron stars collide: nuclear fission. This discovery could help us understand the origin of heavy elements in the universe, unlocking the secrets of the formation of precious metals like gold.
What is nuclear fission?
Scientists know that nuclear fusion is the source of energy in stars. But the formation of heavy elements like gold is a more complex process, and this discovery sheds light on our understanding of this process.
Nuclear fission is the process by which heavy elements break down into lighter elements. This is a fundamental principle used in nuclear power plants on Earth. Scientists from North Carolina State University found the first evidence of nuclear fission by analyzing data from 42 stars. This evidence points to a clear correlation between light metals like silver and rare earth nuclei like europium.
Neutron stars are formed when the cores of dying giant stars collapse. These collisions accelerate the formation of superheavy elements, creating the conditions in which nuclear fission takes place. This discovery could help solve an ancient mystery about the origin of gold and other precious metals.
Predictions made in 2020 showed how nuclear fission is related to a process called the r-process. This theory was confirmed by observations made by scientists, the first evidence that nuclear fission actually happens between stars.
Source: https://www.cioupdate.com.tr/haberler/bilim-insanlari-uzayda-ilk-nukleer-fisyonu-kesfetti/
