SPACE — Precious elements such as gold, uranium, and platinum are found in our solar system due to a clash that took place between two neutron stars 4.6 billion years ago, according to a new study published in the journal Nature.<br /><br />When two neutron stars clash together, powerful gravitational waves are formed, creating enough energy for these heavy metals to be forged.<br /><br />Scientists tested out this theory by analyzing the isotopic decay of ancient meteorites that had fallen to Earth. This was then compared to a numerical simulation of our solar system.<br /><br />The researchers believe that the collision occurred around 100 million years before Earth was formed.<br /><br />This celestial phenomenon is said to have enriched our planet with up to 0.3 percent of its heaviest elements present today, according to a University of Florida news release.<br /><br />Imre Bartos, a researcher involved with the study, said he believes that the study could provide an insight into the origin and composition of our solar system.
