Stars work hard every day, fusing atoms together so that the universe has more interesting materials to work with beyond hydrogen. That same process can eventually lead to a star going nova, sending those fusion-forged atoms into the cosmos. So if you’re looking for heavy elements, stars may not be the best place to look; instead those element accumulate in planets and other, less stellar celestial bodies. That’s great for planet-dwellers like us; for example, the iron-rich core of the Earth spins and creates a magnetic field which shields us from cosmic radiation. When a tasty planet full of interesting elements wanders too close, though, stars can’t help themselves and gobble those planets up, right down to the not-at-all-chewy iron center.
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providence
Science Corner: BioLogos Conference Recap, Pt 1
Earlier this summer, I had the privilege to attend BioLogos‘ Evolution & Christian Faith conference. It was easily the best experience I’ve had at an academic conference. Every day began and ended with a time of worship, singing the kinds of hymns you can really dig into, with the kind of accompaniment that encourages everyone to join in. I usually have a hard time talking to people at conferences, but everyone was very gracious and friendly so I got to have a lot of great conversations with new people. It was particularly exciting to meet several of my fellow ESN bloggers in person. [Read more…] about Science Corner: BioLogos Conference Recap, Pt 1