Rubidium in Barium Stars

2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
M P Roriz ◽  
M Lugaro ◽  
C B Pereira ◽  
N A Drake ◽  
S Junqueira ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Neutron Source ◽  
Slow Neutron ◽  
Asymptotic Giant Branch ◽  
Neutron Density ◽  
Data Sets ◽  
Agb Stars ◽  
Branching Points ◽  
Theoretical Predictions ◽  
Low Mass ◽  
Chemically Peculiar Stars

Abstract Barium (Ba) stars are chemically peculiar stars that display in their atmospheres the signature of the slow neutron-capture (the s-process) mechanism that occurs in asymptotic giant branch (AGB) stars, a main contributor to the cosmic abundances. The observed chemical peculiarity in these objects is not due to self-enrichment, but to mass transfer between the components of a binary system. The atmospheres of Ba stars are therefore excellent astrophysical laboratories providing strong constraints for the nucleosynthesis of the s-process in AGB stars. In particular, rubidium (Rb) is a key element for the s-process diagnostic because it is sensitive to the neutron density and therefore its abundance can reveal the main neutron source for the s-process in AGB stars. We present Rb abundances for a large sample of 180 Ba stars from high resolution spectra (R = 48000), and we compare the observed [Rb/Zr] ratios with theoretical predictions from AGB s-process nucleosynthesis models. The target Ba stars in this study display [Rb/Zr] <0, showing that Rb was not efficiently produced by the activation of branching points. Model predictions from the Monash and FRUITY data sets of low-mass (≲ 4 M⊙) AGB stars are able to cover the Rb abundances observed in the target Ba stars. These observations indicate that the 13C(α,n)16O reaction is the main neutron source of the s-process in the low-mass AGB companions of the observed Ba stars. We have not found in the present study candidate companion for IR/OH massive AGB stars.

scholarly journals Characterizing the companion AGBs using surface chemical composition of barium stars

2019 ◽  
Vol 492 (3) ◽  
pp. 3708-3727 ◽  
Author(s):  
J Shejeelammal ◽  
Aruna Goswami ◽  
Partha Pratim Goswami ◽  
Rajeev Singh Rathour ◽  
Thomas Masseron
Keyword(s):  
Neutron Capture ◽  
Detailed Comparison ◽  
Slow Neutron ◽  
Asymptotic Giant Branch ◽  
Agb Stars ◽  
Capture Process ◽  
Origin And Evolution ◽  
Element Abundances ◽  
The Galaxy ◽  
Low Mass

ABSTRACT Barium stars are one of the important probes to understand the origin and evolution of slow neutron-capture process elements in the Galaxy. These are extrinsic stars, where the observed s-process element abundances are believed to have an origin in the now invisible companions that produced these elements at their asymptotic giant branch (AGB) phase of evolution. We have attempted to understand the s-process nucleosynthesis, as well as the physical properties of the companion stars through a detailed comparison of observed elemental abundances of 10 barium stars with the predictions from AGB nucleosynthesis models, FRUITY. For these stars, we have presented estimates of abundances of several elements, C, N, O, Na, Al, α-elements, Fe-peak elements, and neutron-capture elements Rb, Sr, Y, Zr, Ba, La, Ce, Pr, Nd, Sm, and Eu. The abundance estimates are based on high resolution spectral analysis. Observations of Rb in four of these stars have allowed us to put a limit to the mass of the companion AGB stars. Our analysis clearly shows that the former companions responsible for the surface abundance peculiarities of these stars are low-mass AGB stars. Kinematic analysis has shown the stars to be members of Galactic disc population.

scholarly journals The Chemical Composition of Asymptotic Giant Branch Stars-the s-process

1991 ◽  
Vol 145 ◽  
pp. 299-316
Author(s):  
David L. Lambert
Keyword(s):  
Chemical Composition ◽  
Solar System ◽  
Neutron Source ◽  
Asymptotic Giant Branch ◽  
Asymptotic Giant Branch Stars ◽  
Agb Stars ◽  
Intermediate Mass ◽  
Low Mass ◽  
Giant Branch Stars

This review discusses the chemical composition of AGB stars in the light of predictions for intermediate-mass (3-8 M⊙, 22Ne(α,n) = the neutron source) and low-mass (< 3 M⊙, 13C(α,n) = the neutron source) stars. LM-AGB models can be constructed with envelopes having a composition quite similar to that of solar system material, the SiC grains recently discovered in meteorites, and real AGB stars in the sequence of spectral types M → S → C. Stellar counterparts of the IM-AGB models have yet to be discovered.

scholarly journals The 13C Pocket in Low-Mass AGB Stars

2009 ◽  
Vol 26 (3) ◽  
pp. 133-138 ◽  
Author(s):  
O. Straniero ◽  
S. Cristallo ◽  
R. Gallino
Keyword(s):  
Slow Neutron ◽  
Asymptotic Giant Branch ◽  
Heavy Elements ◽  
Asymptotic Giant Branch Stars ◽  
Agb Stars ◽  
Physical Conditions ◽  
Convective Mixing ◽  
Relevant Role ◽  
Low Mass ◽  
Partial Overlap

AbstractIt is well known that thermally pulsing Asymptotic Giant Branch stars with low mass play a relevant role in the chemical evolution. They have synthesized about 30% of the galactic carbon and provide an important contribution to the nucleosynthesis of heavy elements (A > 80). The relevant nucleosynthesis site is the He-rich intermediate zone (less than 10−2 M⊙), where α(2α,γ)12C reactions and slow neutron captures on seed nuclei (essentially iron) take place. A key ingredient is the interplay between nuclear processes and convective mixing. It is the partial overlap of internal and external convective zones that allows the dredge-up of the material enriched in C and heavy elements. We review the progresses made in the last 50 years in the comprehension of the s process in AGB stars, with special attention to the identification of the main neutron sources and to the particular physical conditions allowing this important nucleosynthesis.

scholarly journals Neutron-capture elements in dwarf galaxies

2020 ◽  
Vol 634 ◽  
pp. A84 ◽  
Author(s):  
Á. Skúladóttir ◽  
C. J. Hansen ◽  
A. Choplin ◽  
S. Salvadori ◽  
M. Hampel ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Massive Star ◽  
Milky Way ◽  
Dwarf Galaxies ◽  
Asymptotic Giant Branch ◽  
Agb Stars ◽  
Chemical Enrichment ◽  
Theoretical Predictions ◽  
Low Metallicity ◽  
First Time ◽  
Best Fit

The slow (s) and intermediate (i) neutron (n) capture processes occur both in asymptotic giant branch (AGB) stars, and in massive stars. To study the build-up of the s- and i-products at low metallicity, we investigate the abundances of Y, Ba, La, Nd, and Eu in 98 stars, at −2.4 <  [Fe/H] <  −0.9, in the Sculptor dwarf spheroidal galaxy. The chemical enrichment from AGB stars becomes apparent at [Fe/H] ≈ −2 in Sculptor, and causes [Y/Ba], [La/Ba], [Nd/Ba] and [Eu/Ba] to decrease with metallicity, reaching subsolar values at the highest [Fe/H] ≈ −1. To investigate individual nucleosynthetic sites, we compared three n-rich Sculptor stars with theoretical yields. One carbon-enhanced metal-poor (CEMP-no) star with high [Sr, Y, Zr] >  +0.7 is best fit with a model of a rapidly-rotating massive star, the second (likely CH star) with the i-process, while the third has no satisfactory fit. For a more general understanding of the build-up of the heavy elements, we calculate for the first time the cumulative contribution of the s- and i-processes to the chemical enrichment in Sculptor, and compare with theoretical predictions. By correcting for the r-process, we derive [Y/Ba]s/i = −0.85 ± 0.16, [La/Ba]s/i = −0.49 ± 0.17, and [Nd/Ba]s/i = −0.48 ± 0.12, in the overall s- and/or i-process in Sculptor. These abundance ratios are within the range of those of CEMP stars in the Milky Way, which have either s- or i-process signatures. The low [Y/Ba]s/i and [La/Ba]s/i that we measure in Sculptor are inconsistent with them arising from the s-process only, but are more compatible with models of the i-process. Thus we conclude that both the s- and i-processes were important for the build-up of n-capture elements in the Sculptor dwarf spheroidal galaxy.

scholarly journals Asymptotic Giant Branch Stars in the Magellanic Clouds

1991 ◽  
Vol 148 ◽  
pp. 363-364
Author(s):  
Neill Reid ◽  
J. R. Mould
Keyword(s):  
Large Magellanic Cloud ◽  
Magellanic Cloud ◽  
Magellanic Clouds ◽  
Asymptotic Giant Branch ◽  
Red Giants ◽  
Asymptotic Giant Branch Stars ◽  
Agb Stars ◽  
Satellite Systems ◽  
Luminosity Functions ◽  
Theoretical Predictions

Since the pioneering objective prism surveys by Westerlund (1960) and Blanco et al. (1980), the Magellanic Clouds have proved a fruitful site for exploring the evolution of AGB stars. We have used photometric techniques to extend the prism C-star surveys to M- and S-type AGB stars, constructing luminosity functions and obtaining spectra of individual stars for comparison with theoretical predictions. We have concentrated on the Large Magellanic Cloud (LMC), but we have recently obtained observations of luminous red giants in a region of the Small Magellanic Cloud (SMC). In this paper we compare the results from these studies of the two satellite systems.

scholarly journals Asymptotic Giant Branch Stars: Thermal Pulses, Carbon Production, and Dredge Up; Neutron Sources and s-Process Nucleosynthesis

1991 ◽  
Vol 145 ◽  
pp. 257-274
Author(s):  
Icko Iben
Keyword(s):  
Neutron Source ◽  
Lower Boundary ◽  
Source Model ◽  
Asymptotic Giant Branch ◽  
Asymptotic Giant Branch Stars ◽  
Agb Stars ◽  
Core Mass ◽  
Convective Envelope ◽  
Thermal Pulses ◽  
Giant Branch Stars

A brief review is given of the structure of asymptotic giant branch (AGB) stars and of the characteristics of the thermal pulses which these stars experience. Following a pulse, model AGB stars with a large core mass easily dredge up fresh carbon, which is the main product of incomplete helium burning, and s-process isotopes, which are made as a consequence of the activation of the 22Ne neutron source. Model AGB stars of small core mass activate the 13C neutron source and produce s-process isotopes in nearly the solar system distribution. They also dredge up fresh carbon and s-process isotopes, but only if overshoot or some other form of “extra” mixing beyond the lower boundary of the convective envelope is invoked.

scholarly journals Heavy-Element Nucleosynthesis in AGB Stars

2000 ◽  
Vol 177 ◽  
pp. 443-448
Author(s):  
Verne V. Smith
Keyword(s):  
Neutron Source ◽  
Heavy Element ◽  
Asymptotic Giant Branch ◽  
Agb Stars ◽  
Process Elements

The production of certain neutron-rich elements heavier than iron occurs during He shell-burning on the asymptotic giant branch (AGB). These neutron captures occur at rather low neutron densities and, thus, the resulting heavy-element nucleosynthesis is characterisitic of the so-called s-process. Abundance analyses of the s-process elements in AGB stars can reveal details of the neutron densities and the stage of AGB evolution at which s-processing occurs, as well as the nature of the neutron source. These details derived from observations can constrain models of stars evolving along the AGB. Recent results concerning the nature of the s-process as a function of metallicity and the nature of the neutron source are reviewed.

(Pre)-white dwarf stars as measuring tools for yields of AGB nucleosynthesis

2019 ◽  
Vol 15 (S357) ◽  
pp. 158-161
Author(s):  
Lisa Löbling
Keyword(s):  
White Dwarf ◽  
Neutron Capture ◽  
Convection Zone ◽  
Slow Neutron ◽  
Asymptotic Giant Branch ◽  
Heavy Elements ◽  
Agb Stars ◽  
Subsequent Evolution ◽  
Dwarf Stars ◽  
White Dwarf Stars

AbstractIn the helium-rich intershell region of asymptotic giant branch (AGB) stars, slow neutron-capture nucleosynthesis produces heavy elements beyond iron. If the stars experience a final-flash of the He-burning shell, a pulse-driven convection zone establishes, the stars become hydrogen-deficient and exhibit former intershell material at their surfaces. In their subsequent evolution towards the white-dwarf cooling sequence, but still at constant luminosity, a strong stellar wind prevents diffusion to wipe out the information about AGB yields. We present and interpret the analysis results of hydrogen-rich and -deficient post-AGB stars, discuss difficulties in their analysis and review the implications on the understanding of post-AGB evolution.

The role of AGB stars in Galactic and cosmic chemical enrichment

2018 ◽  
Vol 14 (S343) ◽  
pp. 247-257
Author(s):  
Chiaki Kobayashi ◽  
Christopher J. Haynes ◽  
Fiorenzo Vincenzo
Keyword(s):  
Electron Capture ◽  
Galaxy Formation ◽  
Neutron Capture ◽  
Slow Neutron ◽  
Asymptotic Giant Branch ◽  
Agb Stars ◽  
Capture Process ◽  
Chemical Enrichment ◽  
Cno Abundances

AbstractThe role of asymptotic giant branch (AGB) stars in chemical enrichment is significant for producing 12,13C, 14N, F, 25,26Mg, 17O and slow neutron-capture process (s-process) elements. The contribution from super-AGB stars is negligible in classical, one-zone chemical evolution models, but the mass ranges can be constrained through the contribution from electron-capture supernovae and possibly hybrid C+O+Ne white dwarfs, if they explode as Type Iax supernovae. In addition to the recent s-process yields of AGB stars, we include various sites for rapid neutron-capture processes (r-processes) in our chemodynamical simulations of a Milky Way type galaxy. We find that neither electron-capture supernovae or neutrino-driven winds are able to adequately produce heavy neutron-capture elements such as Eu in quantities to match observations. Both neutron-star mergers (NSMs) and magneto-rotational supernovae (MRSNe) are able to produce these elements in sufficient quantities. Using the distribution in [Eu/(Fe, α)] – [Fe/H], we predict that NSMs alone are unable to explain the observed Eu abundances, but may be able to together with MRSNe. In order to discuss the role of long-lifetime sources such as NSMs and AGB stars at the early stages of galaxy formation, it is necessary to use a model that can treat inhomogeneous chemical enrichment, such as in our chemodynamical simulations. In our cosmological, chemodynamical simulations, we succeed in reproducing the observed N/O-O/H relations both for global properties of galaxies and for local inter-stellar medium within galaxies, without rotation of stars. We also predict the evolution of CNO abundances of disk galaxies, from which it will be possible to constrain the star formation histories.

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