Chapter 18, Problem 1VSC

To determine

How bright the white dwarf supernova is compared to the massive star supernova.

Answer to Problem 1VSC

Solution:

Approximately 10 times.

Explanation of Solution

The y axis in the plot is in logarithmic scale. Hence, the peak brightness of massive supernova is around solar units, while the peak bright ness of white dwarfs is about solar units. Hence, the brightness of white dwarf supernova is approximately 10 times brighter than the massive star supernova.

Conclusion:

The white dwarf supernova is 10 times brighter than massive star supernova.