Supernova Nucleosynthesis
Supernova nucleosynthesis is the process by which heavy elements are formed during the explosive death of a massive star. This occurs when a supernova explosion releases an enormous amount of energy, allowing for the fusion of lighter elements into heavier ones through rapid neutron capture and other nuclear reactions. Supernova nucleosynthesis is responsible for the creation of elements beyond iron on the periodic table, including gold, platinum, and uranium.