The Physics of Supernovae

Abstract

AbstractPresupernova models of massive stars are presented and their explosion by “delayed neutrino transport” examined. A new form of long duration Type II supernova model is also explored based upon repeated encounter with the electron-positron pair instability in stars heavier than about 60 M⊙. Carbon deflagration in white dwarfs is discussed as the probable explanation of Type I supernovae and special attention is paid to the physical processes whereby a nuclear flame propagates through degenerate carbon.