Phys. Rev. Lett. 82, 4176–4179 (1999)Sharpening the Predictions of Big-Bang NucleosynthesisReceived 14 January 1999; published in the issue dated 24 May 1999 We have reexamined the nuclear inputs to big-bang nucleosynthesis using Monte Carlo realization of the cross-section data to directly estimate theoretical uncertainties for the yields of D, 3He, and 7Li. Our results indicate that previous estimates of the uncertainties were too large by a factor of 2. Using the Burles–Tytler deuterium measurement, we infer a baryon density ΩBh2 = 0.019±0.0024, predict a primeval 4He mass fraction YP = 0.246±0.0014, and obtain a limit to the equivalent number of neutrino species Nν<3.20 (all at 95% C.L.). We also identify key reactions and the energies, where improved data would allow further progress. © 1999 The American Physical Society URL:
http://link.aps.org/doi/10.1103/PhysRevLett.82.4176
DOI:
10.1103/PhysRevLett.82.4176
PACS:
26.35.+c, 98.80.Ft
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