Synonyms for the term "big bang nucleosynthesis" may include the creation of elements, the formation of light elements, and primordial nucleosynthesis. These phrases reference the scientific theory that explains the origins of the universe's lightest elements, such as hydrogen and helium. The big bang nucleosynthesis theory posits that these elements were formed in the first few minutes after the birth of the universe. By studying the abundances of light elements in the current universe, scientists can better understand the conditions present in the early universe and gain insight into the basic building blocks of the cosmos.