Abstract
Rapid r-process nucleosynthesis is responsible for the creation of about half of the elements heavier than iron. Neutron capture on shortlived nuclei in cold processes or during freeze out from hot processes can have a significant impact on the final observed r-process abundances. We are validating the (d,pγ) reaction as a surrogate for neutron capture with measurements on 95Mo targets and a focus on discrete transitions. The experimental results have been analyzed within the Hauser-Feshbach approach with non-elastic breakup of the deuteron providing a neutron to be captured. Preliminary results support the (d,pγ) reaction as a valid surrogate for neutron capture. We are poised to measure the (d,pγ) reaction in inverse kinematics with unstable beams following the development of the experimental techniques.
Highlights
Neutron capture is responsible for the synthesis of almost all of the elements heavier than iron
This is especially important for synthesis of A≈80 elements [2] where both neutrino-driven winds from core-collapse supernovae and neutron-star mergers could be sites for nucleosynthesis
The r-process path is characterized by isotopes where (n,γ) and (γ,n) reactions are in equilibrium and the neutron separation energies are typically ≈3.5 MeV
Summary
Neutron capture is responsible for the synthesis of almost all of the elements heavier than iron. While the optical model used to calculate σσ!!"is robust, the level density and gamma-ray strength function models needed to calculate the HF decay are on less solid footing, especially away from stability and as the nucleus becomes less bound.
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
