What is the limit of element creation via fusion in smaller stars like the Sun?
Answer
Iron
The fusion processes occurring during the long, relatively peaceful life of smaller stars, such as our Sun, primarily build up elements only until iron is formed. Iron represents the endpoint for energy generation through fusion because fusing iron atoms requires an input of energy rather than releasing it. Creating elements heavier than iron demands a much more energetic environment, specifically the immense pressures and rapid neutron-capture processes characteristic of a supernova explosion. Therefore, the relatively gentle stellar burning process caps out at the creation of iron, necessitating catastrophic stellar death for all subsequent heavier elements on the periodic table.
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