Neutrino Flavor Transformation in Supernovae and the Early Universe

Abstract

In this chapter we shall examine the physics of matter-enhanced neutrino flavor conversion in the Big Bang and in supernovae. We are in the midst of a revolution in experimental neutrino physics, which has confronted us with compelling evidence for nonzero neutrino rest masses and flavor mixings. Concurrently, we are undergoing a fantastic increase in the capabilities of observational astronomy, and this promises to provide new insights into the evolution of the Universe. Tantalizingly, these two great trends in science are synergistically linked, at least when it comes to neutrinos!