Universe  ID: 13873

Periodic Table of the Elements: Origins of the Elements

Released on July 1, 2021
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This periodic table depicts the primary source on Earth for each element. In cases where two sources contribute fairly equally, both appear.
The periodic table organizes all the known elements by atomic number, which is the number of protons in each atom of the element. This version of the table, which draws on data compiled by astronomer Jennifer Johnson from Ohio State University, shows our current understanding of how each element found on Earth was originally produced. Most of them ultimately have cosmic origins. Some elements were created with the birth of the universe, while others were made during the lives or deaths of stars. The Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope will help us understand the cosmic era when stars first began forming. The mission will help scientists learn more about how elements were created and distributed throughout galaxies.
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Same as above, but with elements that contribute to colors in fireworks highlighted.
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Illustration several key elements in fireworks, the colors they provide, and their cosmic origins.
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Animated gif version of the above graphic.

Credits

Scott Wiessinger (KBRwyle): Illustrator
Ashley Balzer (ADNET): Science Writer
Jennifer Johnson (Ohio State University): Scientist
Francis Reddy (University of Maryland College Park): Advisor
Ashley Balzer (ADNET): Illustrator
Claire Andreoli (NASA/GSFC): Public Affairs Officer
Please give credit for this item to:
NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center

Short URL to share this page:
https://svs.gsfc.nasa.gov/13873

Mission:
Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope

This item is part of this series:
Astrophysics Stills

Keywords:
SVS >> Neutron Star
SVS >> Hyperwall
SVS >> Big Bang
SVS >> Supernova
NASA Science >> Universe
GCMD >> Earth Science >> Solid Earth >> Rocks/minerals/crystals >> Elements

GCMD keywords can be found on the Internet with the following citation: Olsen, L.M., G. Major, K. Shein, J. Scialdone, S. Ritz, T. Stevens, M. Morahan, A. Aleman, R. Vogel, S. Leicester, H. Weir, M. Meaux, S. Grebas, C.Solomon, M. Holland, T. Northcutt, R. A. Restrepo, R. Bilodeau, 2013. NASA/Global Change Master Directory (GCMD) Earth Science Keywords. Version 8.0.0.0.0