Entity: SUPERNOVA
A supernova is the explosive death of a star, resulting in a massive increase in brightness and the ejection of most of its mass at high velocity.
SUPERNOVA
Etymology
The term 'supernova' is derived from the Latin word 'nova', meaning 'new', which refers to what appears to be a temporary new bright star. The prefix 'super-' distinguishes supernovae from ordinary novae.
Definition
A supernova is the explosion of a star in which the star reaches a maximum intrinsic luminosity one billion times that of the sun. It is a cataclysmic event that can increase a star's brightness significantly and eject most of its mass at high velocities.
Historical Context
Supernovae have played a crucial role in the evolution of galaxies and the universe. They are responsible for creating and dispersing heavy elements essential for life.
Cultural Significance
Supernovae have captured the imagination of humans for centuries, inspiring myths, legends, and scientific exploration. They are seen as both destructive and creative forces in various cultures.
Related Concepts
- Nova: A similar astronomical event but with lower luminosity compared to a supernova.
- Black Hole: A possible outcome of a supernova, where the core collapses into a singularity.
See Also
- Stellar Evolution
- Neutron Star
- Galaxy Formation
A cataclysmic event in which a star explodes, increasing its luminosity significantly and ejecting most of its mass at high speeds, leaving behind a dense core.