During the later stages of a star's life, elements produced in its
core are dispersed throughout interstellar space. These elements,
which are heavier than helium, are then incorporated into later
generations of stars as they form in interstellar clouds. My talk
emphasizes what can be learned about the detailed nucleosynthetic
processes from isotope ratios. Measurements of the interstellar
B-11/B-10 and Li-7/Li-6 ratios yield information on sources for
the light elements. One goal is to discern the relative importance
of neutrino spallation (the nu process) during runaway core
collapse when a massive star dies. Observations of interstellar
fluorine probe this process as well. Our recent measurements of
the Rb-85/Rb-87 ratio are being used to learn more about the
relative contributions from nuclear reactions involving slow- and
rapid-neutron capture in the production of this element.
Tuesday, November 4th
Seminar is to be held at 4:00 PM in the conference room
on the second floor of Dearborn Observatory
Refreshments will be served at 3:30
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