Nuclear physics uncertainties in neutrino-driven, neutron-rich supernova ejecta
Julia Bliss, Almudena Arcones, F. Montes, J. Pereira
Abstract
Background: Neutrino-driven ejecta in core collapse supernovae (CCSNe) offer an interesting astrophysical scenario where lighter heavy elements between Sr and Ag can be synthesized. Previous studies emphasized the important role that $(\ensuremath{\alpha},n)$ reactions play in the production of these elements, particularly in neutron-rich and alpha-rich environments.Purpose: In this paper, we have investigated the sensitivity of elemental abundances to specific $(\ensuremath{\alpha},n)$ reaction-rate uncertainties under different astrophysical conditions.Method: The abundances of lighter heavy elements were calculated with a reaction network under different astrophysical conditions. $(\ensuremath{\alpha},n)$ reaction rates were varied within their theoretical uncertainty by using a Monte Carlo approach.Results: The most important $(\ensuremath{\alpha},n)$ reaction affecting the nucleosynthesis of lighter heavy nuclei were identified for 36 representative conditions of CCSNe neutrino-driven winds.Conclusions: Experimental studies of these reactions will reduce the nucleosynthesis uncertainties and make it possible to use observations to understand the origin of lighter heavy elements and the astrophysical conditions where they are formed.