What cosmic structure is formed when a supernova occurs?

When a supernova occurs, it results in the formation of a nebula. A supernova is the explosive death of a star, which happens at the end of a massive star's life cycle. During this explosion, the outer layers of the star are blasted into space, dispersing elements and gas throughout the surrounding area. This expelled material, enriched with heavy elements that were created in the star, creates a nebula—a vast cloud of gas and dust.

Nebulae formed from supernovae are especially important for the cycle of stellar evolution, as they provide the raw materials from which new stars and planets can form. The remnants of the explosion can lead to various astronomical phenomena, including the creation of new stars within the nebula as gravity pulls the material together. This process illustrates the dynamic and interconnected nature of cosmic structures, highlighting how the life and death of stars contribute to the formation of new celestial objects.