2,240 research outputs found
On the Sensitivity of Massive Star Nucleosynthesis and Evolution to Solar Abundances and to Uncertainties in Helium Burning Reaction Rates
We explore the dependence of pre-supernova evolution and supernova
nucleosynthesis yields on the uncertainties in helium burning reaction rates.
Using the revised solar abundances of Lodders (2003) for the initial stellar
composition, instead of those of Anders & Grevesse (1989), changes the
supernova yields and limits the constraints that those yields place on the
12C(a,g)16O reaction rate. The production factors of medium-weight elements (A
= 16-40) were found to be in reasonable agreement with observed solar ratios
within the current experimental uncertainties in the triple alpha reaction
rate. Simultaneous variations by the same amount in both reaction rates or in
either of them separately, however, can induce significant changes in the
central 12C abundance at core carbon ignition and in the mass of the supernova
remnant. It therefore remains important to have experimental determinations of
the helium burning rates so that their ratio and absolute values are known with
an accuracy of 10% or better.Comment: Accepted for publication by the Astrophysical Journa
Editorial: Physical Review C in its Fortieth Year
This year, 2010, is the 40th anniversary of Physical Review C as a separate
section of the Physical Review. We write here with a double purpose: first, to
describe how PRC has evolved and to explore how this evolution has reflected
changes in the research style and interests of scientists working in nuclear
physics; and second, to solicit suggestions for improvements that will help
guide PRC's future evolution.Comment: Corrected typ
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