Question

According to our modern understanding, what is a nova?

a) the explosion of a massive star at the end of its life
b) a rapidly spinning neutron star
c) the sudden formation of a new star in the sky
d) an explosion on the surface of a white dwarf in a close binary system"

Answer 1

A nova is an explosion on the surface of a white dwarf in a close binary star system, caused by a sudden burst of fusion. It results in the temporary brightening of the white dwarf. Novae fade away over time.

Step-by-step explanation:

A nova is an explosion on the surface of a white dwarf in a close binary star system. It occurs when a white dwarf accumulates matter from its companion star, causing a sudden burst of fusion. This fusion releases a tremendous amount of energy, making the white dwarf temporarily much brighter than it was before the explosion. Novae fade away over a period of months to years.