How do you know the solar system came from a supernova?

Answer 1

The solar system is believed to be made of from components of supernovae explosions because of the presence of chemical elements with an atomic numbers higher than 26 (iron). Since iron has the highest binding energy per nucleon, most stars simply can't produce heavier elements in their core - the fusion process won't get more energy out of it than went into making it. Once a star begins to make iron it is doomed and its life ends very quickly. However, the immense energies in a supernova are believed to be adequate for the creation of heavier elements, which, after the explosion may later coalesce and reform into new stars and planets - hence, we are in a literal sense made from stellar material.

Our sun is likely to be at least "second generation" of recycled elements - and possibly older.

Answer 2

Scientists have determined that elements found in our solar system, like iron and gold, are only formed in the extreme conditions of a supernova explosion. By analyzing the composition of celestial bodies and studying the abundance of these elements, researchers have concluded that our solar system likely originated from the remnants of a supernova explosion.