Stellar Nucleosynthesis Nuclear Data Mining

Abstract

Stellar nucleosynthesis is an important nuclear physics phenomenon that is responsible for presently observed chemical elements and isotope abundances. It is also one of the corner stone hypotheses that provides basis for our understanding of Nature. Its theoretical predictions are often verified through the astrophysical observation and comparison of calculated isotopic abundances with the observed values. These calculations depend heavily on the availability of nuclear reaction rate, cross section and decay data. In this work, we will provide a review of theoretical and experimental nuclear reaction data for Big Bang, stellar and explosive nucleosynthesis and modern computer tools. Examples of evaluated and compiled nuclear reaction data will be given. Major databases and their input in nuclear reaction calculations will be discussed.