What would a supernova sound like?

In summary, the conversation discusses the possibility of sound being produced from a supernova explosion, specifically if it were surrounded by an atmosphere similar to Earth's. The potential for the sound to travel through space and the intensity of the sound are also mentioned. It is suggested that the sound would be similar to a sonic boom and comparisons are made to NASA's conversion of electromagnetic fields into sound. Overall, the conversation highlights the complexities and uncertainties surrounding the production and propagation of sound in a supernova event.
  • #1
serp777
117
6
I obviously realize that sound requires a medium to go through. However, suppose that there was a supernova and it was magically surrounded by an atmosphere that has the same composition and density as Earth's atmosphere. Now, if you were far enough away so you didn't get wiped out, then what would it sound like? Would it sound like a regular explosion or something completely novel. Also, how would the sound change if the supernova formed a black hole? Thanks for your time.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
I'm not sure the sound wave could actually propagate through a few dozen light years of atmosphere without losing all of its energy. You might not hear a thing.
 
  • #3
"Not with a bang but a whimper"
 
  • #4
Supernovae create supersonic shockwaves through the interstellar medium. These move much faster than the speed of sound, so they would hit you as a sonic boom on steroids.
 
  • Like
Likes Garlic
  • #5
Not exactly the same but NASA converted the electromagnetic fields of the planets into sound and it's pretty amazing () I'd imagine you could do a similar sort of thing with a supernova.
 
  • #6
You don't need to do the same thing in supernovae. Supernovae are already large explosions that emit plent of pressure waves that are, by definition, sound. The only really question is how loud it would be given the low base pressures involved and where the observer is located.
 

1. What is a supernova?

A supernova is a powerful explosion that occurs at the end of a star's life. It is one of the most energetic events in the universe and can temporarily outshine an entire galaxy.

2. Can sound travel through space?

No, sound cannot travel through space because it requires a medium, such as air or water, to propagate. In the vacuum of space, there is no medium for sound to travel through.

3. If sound can't travel through space, why do we wonder what a supernova would sound like?

Scientists and researchers often use sound as a tool to understand and analyze data, even if the phenomenon does not produce actual sound waves. In the case of a supernova, we can use sound to represent the energy and intensity of the explosion.

4. How can we determine what a supernova would sound like?

Scientists use data from telescopes and other instruments to create simulations of a supernova. These simulations take into account various factors such as the size and mass of the star, as well as the energy released during the explosion. The resulting sound is an interpretation of what a supernova may sound like if we could hear it.

5. Is there a universal sound for all supernovae?

No, the sound of a supernova can vary depending on the size, mass, and type of star that is exploding. Factors such as the density of the star's core and the amount of energy released can also affect the sound. Each supernova is unique, so the sound may differ from one event to another.

Similar threads

  • Astronomy and Astrophysics
Replies
1
Views
859
Replies
12
Views
4K
Replies
1
Views
1K
  • Astronomy and Astrophysics
Replies
1
Views
812
  • Science Fiction and Fantasy Media
Replies
7
Views
3K
  • Astronomy and Astrophysics
Replies
1
Views
1K
  • Astronomy and Astrophysics
Replies
2
Views
1K
  • Astronomy and Astrophysics
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • Astronomy and Astrophysics
Replies
3
Views
1K
Back
Top