Unlocking the Universe's Elemental Origins: Scientists Crack the i-Process Mystery Using FRIB

Scientists at Michigan State University's Facility for Rare Isotope Beams (FRIB) have successfully observed the decay of key isotopes in the i-process, precisely measuring their neutron capture rates. This provides crucial evidence to explain the unusual abundance of heavy elements in some metal-poor, carbon-enhanced stars and offers a new perspective on the origin of heavy elements in the universe. The team plans to apply this technique to the r-process to further unravel the mystery of the origin of heavier elements like gold, silver, and platinum.