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Concept information

Preferred term

heavy element  

Definition

  • In astronomical terms, a heavy element is any element heavier than helium. Astronomers also refer to such elements as "metals" (although many, such as carbon, are not). Heavy elements, which are essential for the formation of planetary systems and the evolution of life, are only formed by nucleosynthesis inside stars. (Encyclopedia of Science, by David Darling, https://www.daviddarling.info/encyclopedia/H/heavyel.html)

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URI

http://data.loterre.fr/ark:/67375/MDL-QZP8XQNB-7

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