Nucleosynthesis
The s-Process
The slow capture of neutrons that builds about half the elements heavier than iron, up to lead and bismuth. Neutrons are added one at a time, slowly enough that unstable nuclei usually decay before catching the next — a process that unfolds over thousands of years in the interiors of asymptotic-giant-branch stars.
Stars, stages & concepts
Across stellar astrophysics
Knowledge connections
- Associated withThe Asymptotic Giant Branch
- Associated withThe Asymptotic Giant Branch
Sources
The primary and reference sources this topic draws on.
- NASANational Aeronautics and Space Administration
Mission data, planetary science, space telescopes, and public-domain imagery.
Most NASA-produced imagery is in the public domain; individual items are checked for usage terms before publication.