Using type 1a supernova to measure distances in astronomy

Type 1a supernova are created by the same processes in which the explosions are all of the same magnitude. The video explains the accepted ideas on how they are caused and how they are used to estimate distances.

Category:

Education

Tags:

• supernova
• supernovae
• type
• physics
• astronomy
• distance
• estimation
• measurement
• star

[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.

[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.

[swsloper]

fantastic vid really intresting stuff