| Term: | S-process |
| Definition: |
A nucleosynthesis process by which chemical elements heavier than copper are formed through a slow flux of neutrons absorbed by atomic nuclei (neutron-capture element). The capture of neutrons occurs on time scales that are long enough to enable unstable nuclei to decay via the emission of a beta particle before absorbing another neutron. Prominent s-process elements include barium, zirconium, and yttrium. |