Learning Competencies:

1. Give evidence for and explain the formation of the light elements in the
Big Bang Theory. S11/12PS-IIIa-1
2. Give evidence for and describe the formation of heavier elements during
star formation and evolution. S11/12PS-IIIa-2
3. Write the nuclear fusion reactions that take place in stars, which lead to
the formation of new elements. S11/12PS-IIIa-3

FORMATION OF ELEMENTS IN THE BIG BANG THEORY AND

STELLAR EVOLUTION

Formation of Light Elements: Big Bang Nucleosynthesis

Big Bang Theory states that the universe developed 13.7 billion years ago
from a very small, extremely dense, and hot state that expanded rapidly.
This rapid expansion caused the universe to cool down and become less dense,
forming new particles- protons, neutrons, and electrons.
Big bang nucleosynthesis is the process that creates new atomic nucleus from
preexisting nucleons, primarily protons and neutrons.
Nuclear Fusion is the process by which light nuclei fuse together to form a
heavier nucleus.
Isotope is a form of an element that has the same atomic number of the
original element but with a different atomic mass or mass number.