Using type 1a supernova to measure distances in astronomy

[obct]

Isn't that a subject of rather intense debate at the moment? The two supernova triggers, on by accretion onto the other by coalescence of 2 white dwarfs..

[fizzicsorg]

Yes, but the doubts and debate are hard to fit into a short video

[QuietDesperation20]

If the white dwarf exceeds the Chandrasekhar limit why won't it turn into a neutron star instead of exploding? Will the explosion "destroy" the red giant as well?

[fizzicsorg]

As I understand it the white dwarf does explode at the Chandrasekhar limit and that then produces a neutron star. I imagine the remaining red giant would be "blown away" by the supernova.

[swsloper]

fantastic vid really intresting stuff

[kdum8]

Nice video. This shows a Single Generate (SD) Type Ia supernova. Remember too that in rare cases it is possible to have a Double Generate (DD) explosion in which two white dwarfs collide.

[fizzicsorg]

Thanks. I'm never sure how much to put in and what to leave out. I try to keep the time down to 3 or 4 minutes.

[kdum8]

no I think that you have the balance about right. DD SNe Ia explosions are pretty rare and there isn't that much agreement about them even in the astronomy community.