Explain the process that creates a nova

What will be an ideal response?


A nova can occur when one star in a close binary system has evolved to become a white dwarf.Mass loss or evolution of the other star can result in mass transfer to the white dwarf. The hydrogen transferred onto the white dwarf accumulates and becomes degenerate. When the temperature of the deposited hydrogen reaches the temperature required for hydrogen fusion, the entire layer ignites in a very short time, creating a burst of energy. This process does not disrupt the white dwarf, and can be repeated.

Physics & Space Science

You might also like to view...

Mass on a Spring: An object attached to an ideal spring executes simple harmonic motion. If you want to double its total energy, you could

A. double the amplitude of vibration. B. double the force constant (spring constant) of the spring. C. double both the amplitude and force constant (spring constant). D. double the mass. E. double both the mass and amplitude of vibration.

Physics & Space Science

The force that holds charged atoms together is

A. gravitational force. B. electromagnetic force. C. weak interaction. D. strong nuclear forces.

Physics & Space Science

Imagine a single charge q placed at one corner of a square, and that the electric field at the center of the square is F/q

If two other equal charges are placed at the adjacent corners of the square (leaving the opposite corner "blank"), the electric field at the center of the square is A) F/q. B) 4F/q. C) F/(2q). D) F/(4q). E) none of the above

Physics & Space Science

The type of EM radiation emitted when high speed electrons decelerate as they are smashed into a metal target is

a. ultraviolet b. infrared c. x ray d. microwave e. gamma ray

Physics & Space Science