Precision cosmology with the lightest elements
摘要
In this brief review, we describe the key role played by Big Bang Nucleosynthesis (BBN) in today’s ‘Precision Cosmology’, focusing in particular on the precise determination of the primordial abundance of deuterium. We describe the development of the ideas and methods of BBN research from their beginnings more than 75 years ago to the latest developments, and conclude with a forward look to likely advances expected towards the end of the current decade.