Question

Just before it exploded, the star that became supernova SN 1987A was a(n)

A) pulsar.
B) white dwarf.
C) M2 I supergiant.
D) B3 I supergiant.

Answer 1

The star that became supernova SN 1987A was a blue supergiant just before it exploded, providing significant insights into the life cycle of massive stars.

Step-by-step explanation:

The star that became supernova SN 1987A was a blue supergiant just before the explosion. This classification comes from the fact that prior to its transformation into a supernova, SN 1987A was observed as part of surveys of the Large Magellanic Cloud, and its characteristics matched those of a blue supergiant star. The transition of this particular star was closely monitored, and SN 1987A provided an unprecedented opportunity for astronomers to study the mechanisms behind the death of such a massive star using modern technology.