Collisions of Dead Stars Spray Heavy Elements

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Collisions of Dead Stars Spray Heavy Elements Throughout Small Galaxies

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Caltech scientists have found, for the first time, that merging pairs of neutron stars—the burnt-out cores of stars that have exploded—create the majority of heavy elements in small "dwarf" galaxies. Heavy elements, such as silver and gold, are key for planet formation and even life itself. By studying these dwarf galaxies, the researchers hope to learn more about the primary sources of heavy elements for the whole universe. 

  Read More: California Institute of Technology