On the Origin of Neutron-capture Elements in r-I and r-II Stars: A Differential-abundance Analysis

Saraf, Pallavi; Sivarani, Thirupathi; Beers, Timothy C.; Hirai, Yutaka; Tanaka, Masaomi; Allende Prieto, Carlos; Karinkuzhi, Drisya
Bibliographical reference

The Astrophysical Journal

Advertised on:
11
2025
Number of authors
7
IAC number of authors
1
Citations
2
Refereed citations
0
Description
We present a strictly line-by-line differential analysis of a moderately r-process-enhanced star (r-I: HD 107752) with respect to a strongly r-process-enhanced star (r-II: CS 31082-0001) to investigate the possible common origin of their heavy-element nucleosynthesis with high-precision abundances. This study employs European Southern Observatory data archive high-resolution and high-signal-to-noise spectra taken with the Ultraviolet and Visual Echelle Spectrograph Very Large Telescope spectrograph. Considering only the lines in common in both spectra, we estimate differential abundances of 16 light/Fe-peak elements and 15 neutron-capture elements. Abundances of O, Al, Pr, Gd, Dy, Ho, Er, and a detection of Tm in HD 107752, are presented for the first time. We found three distinct features in the differential-abundance pattern. Nearly equal abundances of light elements up to Zn are present in both stars, indicating a common origin for these elements; in addition to no noticable odd─even differential pattern. Regarding the neutron-capture elements, the r-I star exhibits mildly depleted light r-process elements and more depleted heavier r-process elements relative to r-II star. We also show that, among the r-I and r-II stars, the ratio of lighter-to-heavier r-process elements (e.g., [(Sr, Y, Zr)/Eu]) exhibits a decreasing trend with respect to the overall r-process enhancement, forming a continuous sequence from the r-I to the r-II stars. Finally, we discuss the necessity of multiple sites for the formation of r-I stars.
Related projects
spectrum of mercury lamp
Chemical Abundances in Stars
Stellar spectroscopy allows us to determine the properties and chemical compositions of stars. From this information for stars of different ages in the Milky Way, it is possible to reconstruct the chemical evolution of the Galaxy, as well as the origin of the elements heavier than boron, created mainly in stellar interiors. It is also possible to
Carlos
Allende Prieto