TED-Ed: What is the universe made of? - Dennis Wildfogel

The video explains the formation of atoms and molecules, starting from the Big Bang, which created a universe filled with hydrogen and helium. Over time, gravity caused gas clouds to form stars, where nuclear fusion produced heavier elements. When stars explode as supernovas, they create even heavier elements and disperse them into space. This process led to the formation of our Sun and Earth, with Earth being composed mostly of heavier elements formed in stars. The video highlights the interconnectedness of all matter, as famously noted by astronomer Harlow Shapley.

What event is believed to have initiated the creation of the universe?

• The Big Bang

• The Universal Start

• The Great Expansion

• The Cosmic Burst

What process occurs in the core of a star that leads to the formation of elements?

• Nuclear fusion

• Chemical reaction

• Radioactive decay

• Nuclear fission

Which elements are formed during a supernova explosion?

• All elements lighter than iron

• Elements heavier than iron

• Only carbon and oxygen

• Only hydrogen and helium

How did the sun acquire its elements?

• From a gas cloud enriched by multiple supernovae

• From a single supernova explosion

• From a nearby star collision

• From the original hydrogen and helium only

What is the primary reason Earth does not retain much hydrogen or helium?

• Earth's magnetic field repels them

• Hydrogen and helium are too reactive

• Earth's atmosphere is too dense

• Earth's gravity is too weak