2007-02-24 14:56:13 · 3 answers · asked by tara d 2 in Science & Mathematics ➔ Astronomy & Space
When stars form they are composed of about 70% hydrogen and 28% helium, as measured by mass, with a small fraction of heavier elements. Typically the portion of heavy elements is measured in terms of the iron content of the stellar atmosphere, as iron is a common element and its absorption lines are relatively easy to measure. Because the molecular clouds where stars form are steadily enriched by heavier elements from supernovae explosions, a measurement of the chemical composition of a star can be used to infer its age. The portion of heavier elements may also be an indicator of the likelihood that the star has a planetary system.
2007-02-24 15:22:06 · answer #1 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Mostly Hydrogen & Helium
2007-02-25 00:55:30 · answer #2 · answered by jareck 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Hydrogen and Helium atoms. SO DENSE OUR SUN is, it's SEVERAL tons per square INCH! Becaue these H+ and He+ are SO CLOSE together!
2007-02-24 23:42:13 · answer #3 · answered by thewordofgodisjesus 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋