Atomic Synthesis and Stellar Energy. III.

Abstract

view Abstract Citations (4) References Co-Reads Similar Papers Volume Content Graphics Metrics Export Citation NASA/ADS Atomic Synthesis and Stellar Energy. III. Atkinson, R. d'Escourt Abstract The present state of the synthesis theory of stellar energy is reviewed. It is shown that several features of the author's original theory have been supported by subsequent discoveries, and some difficulties have been removed. The theory must, and to some extent already can, be re-worded in terms of present knowledge about neutrons, deu- terons, and positrons. It is concluded (i) that a star can probably not contain any large amount of free neutrons or deuterons; (2) that it is somewhat unlikely that neutrons could be made directly from protons under stellar conditions; (~) that it is apparently very likely that deuterons could be made directly from protons. It is suggested that laboratory study of the following hypothetical reactions would he possible and should lead to the results predicted: (i) H'+H'-~H2+p; (2) He4+H2_~Li6+y; (~) neutrons in the energy range between about 400 and 8ooo volts should show somewhere a strong selective absorption in noticeably scarce elements, and not in common isotopes of com- mon elements. Some experimental evidence in favor of all three predictions is already available, but this is not conclusive. Finally, astronomical grounds are adduced for the view that at least the bright stars must have some more generous source of energy, in addition to synthesis Publication: The Astrophysical Journal Pub Date: July 1936 DOI: 10.1086/143750 Bibcode: 1936ApJ....84...73A full text sources ADS | Related Materials (2) Part 1: 1931ApJ....73..250A Part 2: 1931ApJ....73..308A