What element forms in the core of a massive star just before standard thermonuclear energy generation ceases?
Answer
Iron ($ ext{Fe}$)
The chain of energy-releasing fusion reactions culminates in the creation of iron in the core of massive stars. This marks the end of standard energy generation because fusing iron requires energy input.
Related Questions
What scientific term describes the formation of heavier atomic nuclei from lighter ones inside stars?What is the primary nuclear fusion reaction occurring during a star's main sequence phase?What barrier must nuclear fusion overcome to allow atomic nuclei to bind together?What elements primarily enrich the cosmos when a star similar to our Sun exhausts its fuel?What element forms in the core of a massive star just before standard thermonuclear energy generation ceases?What physical balance maintains a star in a stable lifetime?What process is responsible for creating elements heavier than iron, such as gold and platinum?How does the fusion of iron compare to the fusion of elements lighter than iron regarding net energy?Which sequence correctly represents a step in the fusion chain following helium burning in massive stars?Where did the simplest elements, hydrogen and helium, originate?What condition must a star meet for fusion to occur in its core?