Library of Past Questions Supernovae and Their Remnants

Library of Past Questions and Answers

Supernovae

1. Did I see a supernova?

2. What is a supernova and how does it affect us?

3. What is the difference between a nova and a supernova?

4. Who discovered what a supernova is?

5. What are the different types of supernovae?

6. How long does a supernova last?

7. Where does the energy for a supernova originate?

8. How are supernovae detected and how can I find out when the last one occurred?

9. When was the last supernova that could be seen without a telescope?

10. Why aren't there as many supernovae in our galaxy as predicted?

Supernovae and the Elements

1. Are statements like "Most of the atoms of carbon, oxygen and nitrogen in our bodies came from supernovae." justified?

2. How could an element heavier than iron be created?

3. What is known about isotopic abundances in supernova remnants from X-rays and gamma-rays?

4. Are there fewer heavy elements seen in older galaxies?

Supernova Remnants

1. How much do supernovae expand when they explode?

2. What caused the ring around SN1987a?

3. Does a newly found supernova remnant suggest a close supernova never seen?

4. Can you refute claims that the Universe is only 10,000 years old?

Supernovae and the Earth

1. Is there any evidence of past extinctions from supernovae?

2. Could the Earth be destroyed by a nearby supernova?

3. Can we identify the SNR that helped make the Solar System?

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