[general_re]

But quite early in its history these nuclear furnaces began to convert the lighter elements into heavier ones like carbon, phosphorous and lead -- collectively known as metals.

Hmmm, it's been a while, but my periodic table says that carbon and phosphorus aren't metals. That's Reuters for you...

"If totally metal-free stars could be found..."

Found one...

[AFPhys]

I hate to contradict anybody criticizing one of our vaunted major "news media", but in fact Reuters is using the word "metal" properly in this context. Astronomers use the word "metal" when in context of stars as meaning all elements other than hydrogen and helium.

[AFPhys]

I hate to contradict anybody criticizing one of our vaunted major "news media", but in fact Reuters is using the word "metal" properly in this context. Astronomers use the word "metal" when in context of stars as meaning all elements other than hydrogen and helium.

[snarkpup]

Hmmm, it's been a while, but my periodic table says that carbon and phosphorus aren't metals. That's Reuters for you...

The term "metal" does not mean the same thing in astrophysics lingo as it does in chemistry and English. I believe astronomers use it to refer to any fusion products heavier than helium.

[Delbert]

I have that album General....PAT BOONE ROCKS!!!!....well sort of.

[<1/1,000,000th%]

LOL!!