Progenitor with small reaction networks should not be used as initial conditions for core collapse

TL;DR

This paper argues that using progenitors with small nuclear reaction networks as initial conditions in core collapse simulations is problematic because they omit crucial physics, affecting the accuracy of explosion modeling.

Contribution

It highlights the limitations of small nuclear reaction networks in accurately modeling core collapse progenitors and advises against their use in detailed simulations.

Findings

Small NRN progenitors lack essential physics for collapse dynamics

Using small NRN progenitors can lead to inaccurate explosion simulations

Authors recommend more comprehensive initial conditions for core collapse studies

Abstract

Core collapse initial conditions are a bottleneck in understanding the explosion mechanism(s) of massive stars. Stellar evolution codes struggle after carbon burning, and either stop or adopt numerical simplifications missing crucial physics. The use of small nuclear reaction networks (NRN) that account for energy production but bypass weak reactions is typical, but insufficient to study the dynamics of the collapse. We advise against the use of progenitors computed with small NRN in expensive multi-dimensional simulations of core collapse, bounce, (jet formation), and explosion.