What is Big Bang nucleosynthesis?

1 Answer
Phillip E.
Jun 8, 2016

Big bang nucleosynthesis was the creation of elements heavier than hydrogen, mainly helium.

Explanation:

After the Big Bang there were only protons and neutrons. Free neutrons have a half life of about 10 minutes. Shortly after the big bang temperatures and pressures were high enough the create helium and traces of lithium and beryllium by fusion. This was Big Bang nucleosynthesis.

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