Question

2
select the correct answer.
how do dying stars contribute to the formation of planets?
a. they emit helium gas that attaches to nearby planets.
b. they remove low - mass elements from the planets crust.
c. they cause nuclear fusion inside the inner core of planets.
d. they produce heavy elements such as iron and gold.

Explanation:

Dying stars, especially in supernova explosions, undergo processes like nucleosynthesis. In the later stages of a star's life, heavier elements are formed. For example, elements up to iron are formed through nuclear fusion in the star's core during its normal life cycle. In a supernova, even heavier elements like gold are produced through neutron - capture processes. These elements are then dispersed into space and can be part of the material from which new planets form.

Option A is incorrect because helium is a relatively light element and not the main contribution of dying stars to planet formation in terms of the overall composition of planets. Option B is wrong as dying stars do not remove elements from planet crusts. Option C is incorrect because nuclear fusion in a planet's core is not caused by dying stars.

Answer:

D. They produce heavy elements such as iron and gold.