Characteristics of Supernovae

In the field of astronomy, the term 'supernova' refers to a powerful and luminous explosion of a star. This phenomenon occurs at the end of a star's life cycle and can briefly outshine an entire galaxy. Supernovae are a key source of elements in the universe, such as iron and nickel, which are formed during the explosion. Astronomers categorize supernovae into different types based on their spectral lines and light curves. The two primary types are Type I and Type II supernovae. Type I supernovae occur in binary systems where a white dwarf accumulates matter from a companion star until it reaches a critical mass, leading to an explosive thermonuclear reaction. In contrast, Type II supernovae are the result of massive stars exhausting their nuclear fuel and collapsing under their own gravity.