Where were the atoms in the plastic of your chair originally formed?

• A. In the atmosphere by photosynthesis
• B. In stars through nuclear fusion
• C. Inside Earth's core by chemical reactions
• D. During the process of plastic manufacturing

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that atoms making up everyday materials, like the plastic in your chair, have a cosmic origin.
2. Recall that photosynthesis in the atmosphere rearranges existing atoms (like carbon dioxide) but does not create new atoms.
3. Recognize that chemical reactions inside Earth's core involve rearranging atoms but do not form new atoms either.
4. Learn that plastic manufacturing is a process of assembling molecules from existing atoms, not creating atoms themselves.
5. Know that atoms heavier than hydrogen and helium were originally formed in stars through nuclear fusion, where lighter nuclei combine to form heavier elements.