Question 1: A supernova is a powerful and luminous explosion occurring at the end of a star's life cycle. It results in a sudden increase in brightness, often outshining entire galaxies for a short period. Supernovae play a key role in dispersing elements into space, contributing to the formation of new stars and planets.

Answer: A supernova is a luminous explosion at the end of a star's life, dispersing elements and often outshining galaxies temporarily.

Question 2: Explain the difference between a Type Ia and a Type II supernova in terms of their progenitor stars.

Answer: Type Ia supernovae occur in binary systems where a white dwarf accretes material until it reaches critical mass, leading to explosion. Type II supernovae result from the core collapse of massive single stars (>8 solar masses).

Question 1: Describe the process that leads to a core-collapse supernova in a massive star.

Answer: In a massive star, nuclear fusion creates an iron core that cannot generate energy through fusion. The core collapses under gravity, leading to a supernova explosion as outer layers are expelled.

Question 2: Which type of supernova is more likely to occur in a galaxy with older stellar populations?

Answer: Type Ia

Question 1: A supernova releases approximately 10^44 joules of energy. If this energy is emitted uniformly over a period of 10 days, what is the average power output in watts?

Answer: 1.16 × 10^38 W

Question 1: Propose a theoretical experiment to determine the distance to a recent supernova using light intensity measurements. Include variables and safety considerations.

Answer: Students should suggest measuring the supernova's apparent brightness using a telescope, comparing it with known luminosity models, and applying the inverse-square law. Variables include the observed light intensity, assumed intrinsic brightness, and atmospheric conditions. Safety considerations involve proper eye safety when observing intense light sources and secure handling of telescopic equipment.

Question 1: A supernova observed in a distant galaxy appears 10 magnitudes brighter than expected based on its known distance. Discuss possible reasons for this discrepancy.

Answer: Possible reasons include gravitational lensing, measurement errors, intrinsic variability of the supernova, or intervening dust absorption affecting the observed brightness.

Question 1: Describe how supernovae contribute to the formation of new stars and planets in the universe.

Answer: Supernovae disperse heavy elements into space, enriching interstellar gas clouds. These elements become part of new star systems, leading to the formation of planets and other celestial bodies.