cosmochemistry
Quick Summary
Cosmochemistry is a branch of chemistry focused on the chemical composition of the universe and the changes it undergoes. It is closely related to astrochemistry, which studies the chemistry of celestial bodies and interstellar space.12
Cosmochemistry investigates the origin and relative abundance of elements within the solar system, galaxy, and the universe as a whole. Research in this field utilizes data from stars, gas clouds, meteorites, and samples returned from space missions. The chemical composition of celestial objects is determined by analyzing the light they emit and absorb, a process known as spectroscopy.3456
The universe initially consisted primarily of hydrogen and helium. Nuclear fusion reactions within stars convert hydrogen into helium and subsequently into heavier elements up to iron. Elements heavier than iron require energy input to form. The relative abundance of elements in the universe generally decreases as their atomic weight increases, with hydrogen and helium being the most abundant.64
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