Big Bang Nucleosynthesis Predictions for Precision Cosmology

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Abstract
The determination of the primeval deuterium abundance has opened a precision era in big bang nucleosynthesis, making accurate predictions more important than ever before. We present in analytic form new, more precise predictions for the light-element abundances and their error matrix. Using our predictions and the primeval deuterium abundance, we infer a baryon density of ΩBh2 = 0.020 ± 0.002 (95% confidence level) and find no evidence for stellar production (or destruction) of 3He beyond burning D into 3He. Conclusions about 4He and 7Li currently hinge on possible systematic errors in their measurements.

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