Why Are Elements with Even Numbers of Protons More Abundant

question 48

Multiple Choice

Why are elements with even numbers of protons more abundant, on average, than elements with odd numbers of protons?

• A) Because elements are mainly made in fusion reactions with hydrogen nuclei
• B) Because when elements split in a fission reaction, they prefer to split with all the protons paired
• C) Because elements are mainly made in fusion reactions with helium nuclei
• D) There's no explanation, it's something of a mystery to be explained or it may be a coincidence.

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