Nucleosynthesis in Type I X-ray Bursts

Abstract

Type I X-ray bursts are thermonuclear explosions that occur in the envelopes of accreting neutron stars. Detailed observations of these phenomena have prompted numerous studies in theoretical astrophysics and experimental nuclear physics since their discovery over 35 years ago. In this review, we begin by discussing key observational features of these phenomena that may be sensitive to the particular patterns of nucleosynthesis from the associated thermonuclear burning. We then summarize efforts to model type I X-ray bursts, with emphasis on determining the nuclear physics processes involved throughout these bursts. We discuss and evaluate limitations in the models, particularly with regard to key uncertainties in the nuclear physics input. Finally, we examine recent, relevant experimental measurements and outline future prospects to improve our understanding of these unique environments from observational, theoretical and experimental perspectives.

Accepted by Prog. Part. Nucl. Phys., 45 pages, 14 figures

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Cited by in corpus (48)

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• The production of proton-rich isotopes beyond iron: The $\gamma$ process in stars
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• Dependence of X-ray Burst Models on Nuclear Masses
• Consistent Modeling of GS 1826-24 X-ray Bursts for Multiple Accretion Rates Demonstrates the Possibility to Constrain rp-process Reaction Rates
• Mass Measurements of Neutron-Deficient Y, Zr, and Nb Isotopes and Their Impact on $rp$ and $\nu p$ Nucleosynthesis Processes
• Time-of-flight mass measurements of neutron-rich chromium isotopes up to N = 40 and implications for the accreted neutron star crust
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• Multidimensional Modeling of Type I X-ray Bursts. II. Two-Dimensional Convection in a Mixed H/He Accretor
• Beta-decay spectroscopy of ${}^{27}$S
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• Trends in Nuclear Astrophysics
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