Solution

ID: past-exam-of-the-mathematics-course-of-the-university-of-cambridge/2010/iii/paper-53/2/i/d/solution

The equilibrium neutron-to-proton ratio is . Increasing the neutron-proton mass difference suppresses neutron abundance at the same freeze-out temperature. Therefore less helium-4 forms, with other inputs held fixed. Any associated shortening of neutron lifetime further reduces survival, rather than reversing this direct effect.

New to topics? Read the docs here!