# A supernova is one stage in the life cycle of a massive star. Explain what a supernova is and describe the role it plays in distributing elements throughout the universe.

> OCR GCSE Physics A: Gateway Science (J249) — P6.3 Astronomy · Explain · 4 marks

> Astronomers studying a distant galaxy have detected the sudden dramatic brightening of a single star, followed by the appearance of a slowly expanding cloud of gas and heavy elements spreading outward from where the star once was.

## Mark scheme (4 marks)

1. A supernova is the explosion of a massive star
2. Heavy/larger nuclei are produced inside the star by fusion reactions during the star's lifetime
3. The supernova explosion distributes/spreads these elements (created by fusion) throughout the universe
4. The expanding cloud of gas and elements observed may form a new nebula, which can eventually lead to the formation of new stars and planets containing these heavier elements

## Key terms

- [supernova](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/supernova)
- [massive star](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/massive-star)
- [elements](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/elements)

## Related

- [Revision notes for OCR GCSE Physics A: Gateway Science (J249)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
- [How to answer "Explain" questions](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/tools/command-word-cheatsheet)
- [Practice this with AI marking (free)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/start)

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Source: [GradeNine](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/q/a-supernova-is-one-stage-in-4a9b1f73) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.