Astronomy and Astrophysics – Astrophysics
Scientific paper
2003-09-29
Astronomy and Astrophysics
Astrophysics
17 pages, 8 figures; To appear in Carnegie Observatories Astrophysics Series, Vol. 4: Origin and Evolution of the Elements, ed
Scientific paper
During the last several decades, there have been a number of advances in understanding the rapid neutron-capture process (i.e., the r-process). These advances include large quantities of high-resolution spectroscopic abundance data of neutron-capture elements, improved astrophysical models, and increasingly more precise nuclear and atomic physics data. The elemental abundances of the heavy neutron-capture elements, from Ba through the third r-process peak, in low-metallicity ([Fe/H] <~ -2.5) Galactic halo stars are consistent with the scaled (i.e., relative) solar system r-process abundance distribution. These abundance comparisons suggest that for elements with Z >= 56 the r-process is robust--appearing to operate in a relatively consistent manner over the history of the Galaxy--and place stringent constraints on r-process models. While not yet identified, neutron-rich ejecta outside of the core in a collapsing (Type II, Ib) supernova continues to be a promising site for the r-process. Neutron star binary mergers might also be a possible alternative site. Abundance comparisons of lighter n-capture elements in halo stars show variations with the scaled solar r-process curve and might suggest either multiple r-process sites, or, at least, different synthesis conditions in the same astrophysical site. Constraints on r-process models and clues to the progenitors of the halo stars--the earliest generations of Galactic stars--are also provided by the star-to-star abundance scatter of [Eu/Fe] at low metallicities in the early Galaxy. Finally, abundance observations of long-lived radioactive elements (such as Th and U) produced in the r-process can be used to determine the chronometric ages of the oldest stars, placing constraints on the lower limit age estimates of the Galaxy and the Universe.
Cowan John J.
Sneden Christopher
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