Big Bang Nucleosynthesis Predictions for Precision Cosmology

Abstract

The determination of the primeval deuterium abundance has opened a precision era in big-bang nucleosynthesis (BBN), making accurate predictions more important than ever before. We present in analytic form new, more precise predictions for the light-element abundances and their error matrix. Using our predictions and the primeval deuterium abundance we infer a baryon density of Omega_B h^2 = 0.020 pm 0.002 (95% cl) and find no evidence for stellar production (or destruction) of 3He beyond burning D to 3He. Conclusions about 4He and 7Li currently hinge upon possible systematic error in their measurements.