What subatomic particles are formed when protons and electrons are squeezed together during the rapid iron core implosion?
Answer
Neutrons and vast numbers of neutrinos
As the iron core collapses under immense gravitational pressure after exceeding the critical mass, the density and temperature skyrocket to extreme levels. Under these inconceivable conditions, the mutual electrical repulsion between protons and electrons is overcome by the sheer force of the implosion. This force causes them to merge, a process called inverse beta decay, resulting in the formation of neutrons. Simultaneously, this merging releases a tremendous flood of neutrinos, which are weakly interacting subatomic particles that escape the collapsing core almost unimpeded, playing a crucial role in the subsequent supernova eruption.
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