Nucleosynthesis Processes: Progress in Understanding Types and Sources

The basic nucleosynthetic processes responsible for the origins of the chemical elements were mapped out in the 1950s. Since that time, much progress has been made in both our understanding of these processes and their astrophysical sites, and a number of additional potential nucleosynthetic pathways have been identified. Detangling the potential contributions of each of these processes to the galactic tally of chemical elements remains a key challenge, particularly for elements heavier than iron. Here we review recent progress in nucleosynthesis studies and highlight advances in our understanding of heavy element origins.