10 Questions
Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of a supernova explosion?
The explosion is caused by a thermonuclear runaway in a white dwarf star
What is the primary reason for the distinction between high redshift and low redshift supernova searches?
The expansion of the universe means that more distant objects have a higher redshift, and thus can be used to estimate distances
What is the significance of the Pantheon data set for the study of supernovae?
All of the above
What is the primary purpose of using supernova light curves for high redshift observations?
To generate Hubble diagrams and make cosmological predictions
Which of the following is the most accurate description of the origin of the term 'supernova'?
All of the above
What is the primary mechanism that triggers most supernovae?
The sudden re-ignition of nuclear fusion in a white dwarf
What is a major source of elements in the interstellar medium, ranging from oxygen to rubidium?
Supernovae
What is the maximum speed at which supernovae can expel material?
A few percent of the speed of light
What astronomical event was the last supernova directly observed in the Milky Way?
Kepler's Supernova in 1604
What is the estimated frequency of supernovae occurring in the Milky Way?
Three times every century
Learn about how supernovae expel material, drive shock waves into the interstellar medium, and contribute to the formation of elements and cosmic rays, as well as trigger the birth of new stars.
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