Energy Released in Thermonuclear Runaway of 1 Solar Mass White Dwarf

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In summary, the conversation discusses the calculation of energy released from a thermonuclear reaction involving a white dwarf and the conversion of carbon to iron. The speaker is unsure of the exact reaction and is seeking clarification on the process. It is explained that lighter atoms fuse to form heavier ones, resulting in a decrease in the number of atoms and the release of energy.
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erogard
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Hi everyone,

Ok this got to be a very simple question...

"Calculate the energy released if a 1 solar mass white dwarf undergoes a thermonuclear runaway and converts 0.5 solar masses of carbon (A=12) to iron (A=56)."

I know I'm supposed to use e=mc², but I would like to know what the reaction actually is.
We start with 1/2 solar mass of C and get X solar mass of iron. Are we assuming X is 1/2?
Also aren't we converting lighter atoms to heavier ones? Then how could energy be released in such a process?

Just a little bit confused. Any help would be appreciated.
 
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anyone? =/
 
  • #3
Light atoms fuse and so you have fewer of them as heavier fused atoms. (I can hear you slapping your forehead).
 

Related to Energy Released in Thermonuclear Runaway of 1 Solar Mass White Dwarf

1. What is the Energy Released in Thermonuclear Runaway of 1 Solar Mass White Dwarf?

The Energy Released in Thermonuclear Runaway of 1 Solar Mass White Dwarf is a measure of the amount of energy that is released when a 1 solar mass white dwarf star undergoes a thermonuclear runaway, also known as a Type Ia supernova. This is a catastrophic event in which the white dwarf star explodes, releasing a tremendous amount of energy.

2. How is the Energy Released in Thermonuclear Runaway of 1 Solar Mass White Dwarf calculated?

The Energy Released in Thermonuclear Runaway of 1 Solar Mass White Dwarf is calculated using Einstein's famous equation, E=mc². This equation relates the mass of a body to its energy, with c being the speed of light. By measuring the mass of the white dwarf before and after the supernova, scientists can calculate the energy released.

3. What is the source of the energy released in a thermonuclear runaway of a white dwarf?

The source of the energy released in a thermonuclear runaway of a white dwarf is nuclear fusion. In the core of a white dwarf, extreme temperatures and pressures cause hydrogen atoms to fuse together, releasing a tremendous amount of energy. This process continues until the star's core can no longer support the fusion reactions, leading to a catastrophic explosion.

4. How does the Energy Released in Thermonuclear Runaway of 1 Solar Mass White Dwarf compare to other types of supernovae?

The Energy Released in Thermonuclear Runaway of 1 Solar Mass White Dwarf is much greater than other types of supernovae, such as Type II supernovae. A Type II supernova occurs when a massive star runs out of fuel and collapses, releasing energy in the process. The energy released in a Type II supernova is typically about 10% of the energy released in a Type Ia supernova.

5. Why are Type Ia supernovae important for studying the expansion of the universe?

Type Ia supernovae are important for studying the expansion of the universe because they are considered to be "standard candles." This means that they have a consistent and predictable luminosity, making them useful for measuring distances in the universe. By studying the energy released in Type Ia supernovae, scientists can better understand the rate at which the universe is expanding.

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