===== Reaction Networks =====

Reaction networks are computer models that determine how a set of nuclear reactions modifies the composition of an astrophysical environment. Each nucleus in the network can be produced or destroyed by various reactions. The network code solves a set of differential equations for the abundance of each nucleus as a function of time. Network calculations are the link between the nuclear physics and the astrophysics and therefore play a central role in nuclear astrophysics. They are part of astrophysical model codes that describe stars and stellar explosions, and they are also used stand-alone to explore the impact of nuclear physics on composition and energy generation in an astrophysical environment. 

[[http://streaming.msu.edu/storemedia/download/schatz/NACourse/Networks/networks.mp4| Recorded Lecture]]
[[http://storemedia.vudat.msu.edu/public/ccplayergen.php?publish_dir=download&user_id=schatz&url_dir=NACourse/Networks/&file=networks.mp4&share_path=&caption_src=| Player]]