= r-process
{c}
{title2=$r$-process}
{wiki}
= Rapid neutron-capture process
{synonym}
At sufficiently large neutron density, successive <neutron captures> outrun relevant beta decays and produce very neutron-rich nuclei. Decay toward stability afterward yields many heavy isotopes, including some actinides. Neutron-rich ejecta from <neutron star mergers> provide an established site; particular magnetically driven collapse outflows are additional candidates. This does not imply that every ordinary <core-collapse supernova> produces a complete heavy-element pattern.
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