The discussion centers on the production of heavy elements, specifically challenging the notion that neutron star mergers (NSM) are the primary source. Participants argue that supernova explosions have historically been viewed as the main contributors, but recent findings suggest that NSM may not produce sufficient r-process elements due to timing and ejection mechanism issues. Additionally, the simplistic treatment of neutrinos in simulations raises doubts about the ability of core-collapse supernovae to form heavy nuclei. Overall, the conversation highlights significant uncertainties in Galactic Chemical Evolution (GCE) models and the need for further investigation.
PREREQUISITESAstronomers, astrophysicists, and researchers interested in nucleosynthesis, heavy element formation, and the dynamics of neutron stars and supernovae.
My understanding is that that was the conventional wisdom for a long time but that recently the view has shifted to their being created mostly by neutron star collision explosions and by supernovae but to a lesser degree (lesser amount of the overall mass produced for each element)mathman said:I am under the impression that the heavy elements are produced in supernova explosions.