The rp-Process Path

This animation illustrates the path of the rp-process in the chart of the nuclides. This process involves a sequence of proton (and alpha particle) captures interspersed with beta plus decays. It is probably responsible for producing many of the proton-rich nuclei that exist in nature. The likely astronomical site for this process is an X-ray burst on an accreting neutron star or a nova outburst on an accreting white dwarf, but many details remain unresolved. Usage: Click "Play" to begin and when the button turns red to continue. "Step" moves forward one frame and "Back" moves backwards one frame. Click "Stop" to pause. "Home" returns to the beginning from any point.