Neutrino mean free path in neutron stars in the presence of hyperons

Abstract

We investigate the neutrino elastic differential cross-section (NDCS) and corresponding mean free path for neutral current scattering in the dense matter of a neutron star. A wide range of observed neutron star (NS) masses is considered, including the presence of $\Lambda$, ${\Xi }^{-}$, and ${\Xi }^0$ hyperons in the heaviest stars. Their presence significantly decreases the total neutrino mean free path in the heavier stars.

Comments: 14 pages, 7 figures, 1 table, PRC published version