Constraints on stellar evolution from white dwarf asteroseismology

Abstract

High mass and low mass stars follow a similar evolution until the inert core phase that follows the end of the core helium burning stage. In particular, one common phase of stellar evolution is the alpha capture reaction that turns carbon into oxygen in the core. We can obtain constraints on this reaction rate by studying the remnants of low mass stars, as this is the ultimate reaction that occurs in their core. We also present results that allow us to test the time dependent calculations of diffusion in dense interiors.