Neutron-mirror neutron oscillations in stars

TL;DR

This paper presents a new theory of neutron-mirror neutron oscillations affecting stellar evolution and nucleosynthesis, supported by observational evidence from various stellar phenomena.

Contribution

It introduces a novel model linking $n-n'$ oscillations to stellar processes, providing a more convincing explanation for star evolution and related phenomena.

Findings

Explains white dwarf and neutron star structures

Accounts for different supernova types

Describes synthesis of heavy elements

Abstract

Based on a newly proposed mirror-matter model of neutron-mirror neutron ($n-n'$) oscillations [Phys. Lett. B 797, 134921 (2019)], evolution and nucleosynthesis in single stars under a new theory is presented. In the new model, $n-n'$ oscillations are caused by a very small mass difference between particles of the two sectors. The new theory with the new $n-n'$ model can demonstrate the evolution in a much more convincing way than the conventional belief. In particular, many observations in stars show strong support for the new theory and the new $n-n'$ model. For example, progenitor mass limits and structures for white dwarfs and neutron stars, two different types of core collapse supernovae (II-P and II-L), synthesis of heavy elements, pulsating phenomena in stars, etc, can all be easily and naturally explained under the new theory.