Tracking the Evolution of Lithium in Giants Using Asteroseismology: Super-Li-rich Stars Are Almost Exclusively Young Red-clump Stars

We report novel observational evidence on the evolutionary status of lithium-rich giant stars by combining asteroseismic and lithium abundance data. Comparing observations models gravity-mode period spacing $\Delta\Pi_{1}$, we find that super-Li-rich giants (SLR, A(Li)~$> 3.2$~dex) are almost exclusively young red-clump (RC) stars. Depending exact phase evolution, which requires more data to refine, SLR either (i) less than $\sim 2$~Myr or (ii) $\sim40$~Myr past main core helium flash (CHeF). Our set a strong upper limit for time inferred Li-enrichment $< 40$~Myr post-CHeF, lending support idea is produced around CHeF. In contrast, evolved RC ($> post-CHeF) generally have low abundances (A(Li)~$<1.0$~dex). Between young, phase, mostly old, Li-poor there an average reduction about 3 orders magnitude. This Li-destruction may occur rapidly. situation be clear with having Li between two extremes Li-poor. group, `Li-rich' ($3.2 >$~A(Li)~$> 1.0$~dex), shows wide range states.