In the context of stellar chemical makeup, what do astronomers generally refer to as "metals"?

Answer

Any element heavier than hydrogen and helium

In the specific vernacular used by astronomers when discussing stellar composition and evolution, the term "metals" has a distinct definition unrelated to the common chemical definition. Astronomers classify elements based on their cosmic abundance relative to the universe's primary constituents. Therefore, in this context, "metals" encompass any element found in the star or gas cloud that is heavier than the two lightest elements: hydrogen ($ ext{H}$) and helium ($ ext{He}$). Stars formed later in the universe exhibit higher metallicity because they incorporate remnants—including heavier elements—from previous generations of supernovae and stellar lifetimes. While metallicity plays a secondary role in fine-tuning internal structure, opacity, and the precise rate of energy transport, it does not generally alter the final broad outcome category (like turning into a white dwarf versus a supernova remnant), unlike the dominant role played by initial mass.

In the context of stellar chemical makeup, what do astronomers generally refer to as "metals"?

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