Astronomy and Astrophysics – Astrophysics
Scientific paper
2002-04-19
Phys.Rev.D66:063507,2002
Astronomy and Astrophysics
Astrophysics
Phys. Rev. D accepted version; minor changes in response to referee
Scientific paper
10.1103/PhysRevD.66.063507
We compute primordial light-element abundances for cases with fine structure constant alpha different from the present value, including many sources of alpha dependence neglected in previous calculations. Specifically, we consider contributions arising from Coulomb barrier penetration, photon coupling to nuclear currents, and the electromagnetic components of nuclear masses. We find the primordial abundances to depend more weakly on alpha than previously estimated, by up to a factor of 2 in the case of ^7Li. We discuss the constraints on variations in alpha from the individual abundance measurements and the uncertainties affecting these constraints. While the present best measurements of primordial D/H, ^4He/H, and ^7Li/H may be reconciled pairwise by adjusting alpha and the universal baryon density, no value of alpha allows all three to be accommodated simultaneously without consideration of systematic error. The combination of measured abundances with observations of acoustic peaks in the cosmic microwave background favors no change in alpha within the uncertainties.
Lopez Robert E.
Nollett Kenneth M.
No associations
LandOfFree
Primordial nucleosynthesis with a varying fine structure constant: An improved estimate does not yet have a rating. At this time, there are no reviews or comments for this scientific paper.
If you have personal experience with Primordial nucleosynthesis with a varying fine structure constant: An improved estimate, we encourage you to share that experience with our LandOfFree.com community. Your opinion is very important and Primordial nucleosynthesis with a varying fine structure constant: An improved estimate will most certainly appreciate the feedback.
Profile ID: LFWR-SCP-O-47776