The γ‐ray Strength Function in Nuclear Astrophysics

The γ‐ray strength function is a key statistical nuclear ingredient to the s‐, r‐ and p‐process nucleosynthesis of heavy elements. It has recently become apparent that extra γ‐ray strengths that appear near neutron threshold on top of the low‐energy tail of GDR play an important role in neutron capture and photodisintegration. We discuss extra γ‐ray strengths of pigmy E1 and giant M1 nature based on the latest experimental photoneutron cross sections measured with laser Compton scattering γ‐rays.