Astrophysics Colloquium--Stellar Explosions and Element Synthesis (Speaker: Gail McLaughlin, North Carolina State University)

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Date: 
Tuesday, April 9, 4:00pm to 5:00pm

Abstract: The astrophysical origin of many of the heaviest elements remains a mystery. About half of the elements with mass number greater than 100 are thought to be made by a rapid neutron capture process (r-process) that requires many neutrons. Finding a site for this process which is consistent with observation presents a challenge. I will review the leading suggestions and discuss new avenues for making progress on this subject.