4 ms·
Well the metallic state has a pretty precise definition, presumably the oxygen in stars exists in that state. (Whereas oxygen in air does not)
by zodiac 10y ago
Well the metallic state has a pretty precise definition, presumably the oxygen in stars exists in that state. (Whereas oxygen in air does not)
- MereInterest 10y agoNope, not at all. In astrophysics, "metal" refers to any element heavier than helium, regardless of oxidation state. It is a useful definition, because only hydrogen and helium were present from the big bang. The metallicity of a star then determines the age of the nebula that formed it. More metals (in the astrophysical sense) means that other stars had to exist, make heavier elements, and explode prior to that stars birth. It's a different definition, but it is quite useful in the field.
- sandworm101 10y agoAgain, "the metalic state" is for a different field. Same root words, different definitions and uses depending on context.