Why is iron significant to understanding how a supernova occurs?
A)Iron is the heaviest of all atomic nuclei,and thus no heavier elements can be made.
B)Supernovae often leave behind neutron stars,which are made mostly of iron.
C)The fusion of iron into uranium is the reaction that drives a supernova explosion.
D)Iron cannot release energy either by fission or fusion.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Iron is significant because it marks a turning point in the life cycle of a star. When a star starts to fuse iron in its core, it no longer gains energy from the fusion process because iron fusion consumes more energy than it releases. This lack of energy release leads to the star's collapse and the subsequent supernova explosion.

Why Is Iron Significant to Understanding How a Supernova Occurs