The formation of the heaviest elements
Anna Frebel (MIT), Timothy C. Beers (Notre Dame)
TL;DR
This paper discusses the formation of the heaviest elements, emphasizing that the rapid neutron-capture process mainly occurs in neutron-star mergers rather than supernovae.
Contribution
It highlights the primary astrophysical site for heavy element formation as neutron-star mergers, challenging previous assumptions about supernovae.
Findings
Neutron-star mergers are the main site for heavy element synthesis.
Supernovae are less significant in producing the heaviest elements.
The rapid neutron-capture process is crucial for heavy element formation.
Abstract
The rapid neutron-capture process needed to build up many of the elements heavier than iron seems to take place primarily in neutron-star mergers, not supernova explosions.
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Taxonomy
TopicsTwentieth Century Scientific Developments · Advanced X-ray and CT Imaging · Nuclear Physics and Applications