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How do atoms form? A physicist explains where the atoms that make up everything around come from

  • Written by Stephen L. Levy, Associate Professor of Physics and Applied Physics and Astronomy, Binghamton University, State University of New York
imageMany heavy atoms form from a supernova explosion, the remnants of which are shown in this image. NASA/ESA/Hubble Heritage Team

Curious Kids is a series for children of all ages. If you have a question you’d like an expert to answer, send it to CuriousKidsUS@theconversation.com.


How do atoms form? – Joshua, age 7, Shoreview, Minnesota


Richa...

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