What is the fate of elements synthesized in giant stars after the star dies?
Answer
They are dispersed into the interstellar medium
The entire purpose of stellar nucleosynthesis, from hydrogen burning to the explosive creation of heavy elements, is ultimately tied to the recycling of matter throughout the galaxy. When massive stars reach the end of their lives, whether through stellar winds or, more violently, via a supernova explosion, the newly synthesized materials are forcefully ejected. This enriched gas, containing everything from processed hydrogen up through elements like gold forged in the explosion, is scattered into the interstellar medium. This enriched material then mixes with existing clouds, providing the necessary raw ingredients for the next generation of stars, planets, and ultimately, life.
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