Eli5: Is it possible that there are elements on other planets, we don’t have on earth and haven’t discover yet?

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Eli5: Is it possible that there are elements on other planets, we don’t have on earth and haven’t discover yet?

In: Chemistry

12 Answers

Anonymous 0 Comments

In theory, yes. Given the infinite size of the universe, it is possible for the correct conditions to exist to create heavier elements. It’s still not likely as most of these elements are unstable and tend to break down into more stable elements.
Other problems come up from this scenario, however. Like the conditions for those elements to be created may be hostile to life/technology, or the elements would need to be created in a high enough volume to still exist by the time we could visit. Our technology can’t see exoplanets but assumes their existence usually by detecting wobble or variations in detected light output that repeat. All of this would mean it is extremely unlikely to find.

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