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arXiv · 0806.4184

The puzzling origin of the 6Li plateau

Abstract

We discuss the 6Li abundance evolution within a hierarchical model of Galaxy formation which correctly reproduces the [Fe/H] distribution of metal-poor halo stars. Contrary to previous findings, we find that neither the level (6Li/H=6x10^-12) nor the flatness of the 6Li distribution with [Fe/H] can be reproduced under the most favourable conditions by any model in which 6Li production is tied to a (data-constrained) Galactic star formation rate via cosmic ray spallation. Thus, the origin of the plateau might be due to some other early mechanism unrelated to star formation.

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BibTeXRIS

Carmelo Evoli, Stefania Salvadori, Andrea Ferrara. 2008-09-23. The puzzling origin of the 6Li plateau. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1745-3933.2008.00524.x

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