Question: what is nucleosynthesis. Please explain in detail i am very keen to learn about science as it is a very interesting subject

Phillip Wilkinson answered on 12 Mar 2013:

Very good question.

Nucleosynthesis is the creation of new atomic nuclei from existing nuclei. An atomic nuclei is the center of an atomic particle, made from a mixture of proton sand neutrons. Different number of protons and neutrons create different elements. Hydrogen is the ‘lightest’ with 1 proton in its nucleus whereas iron has 26 protons and 30 neutrons.

The creation of new nuclei usually occurs during intense heat and pressure for example when in the center of a star or when the star goes supernova (huge explosion!!). In fact all of the heavier elements on Earth where once formed in the center of stars that have long since exploded, billions of years ago.

Its a very advanced topic, so let me know if you have any more questions.