Observations Show That Elements with Atomic Mass Numbers Divisible by 4

question 83

Multiple Choice

Observations show that elements with atomic mass numbers divisible by 4 (such as oxygen-16,neon-20,and magnesium-24) tend to be more abundant in the universe than elements with atomic mass numbers in between.Why do we think this is the case?

• A)The apparent pattern is thought to be a random coincidence.
• B)Elements with atomic mass numbers divisible by 4 tend to be more stable than elements in between.
• C)At the end of a high-mass star's life,it produces new elements through a series of helium capture reactions.
• D)This pattern in elemental abundances was apparently determined during the first few minutes after the Big Bang.

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Definitions:

Causal Inferences

The process of drawing a conclusion about a causal connection based on the conditions of the occurrence of an effect.

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General Tendency

An overall direction or inclination in behavior, thought, or attitude that is common across different contexts or situations.