A nova and a supernova are distinct astronomical phenomena resulting from different stellar processes. A supernova occurs when a massive star, in its red supergiant phase, exhausts its nuclear fuel, leading to a catastrophic explosion that releases a significant amount of matter into interstellar space, often resulting in a neutron star. In contrast, a nova involves a binary star system where a smaller star accumulates matter from its massive companion, leading to a sudden release of energy without the explosive force characteristic of a supernova. Supernovae are rare events, expected to occur in a galaxy like the Milky Way approximately once every 300 years, while novae are more frequent occurrences.
PREREQUISITESAstronomy enthusiasts, astrophysicists, and students studying stellar phenomena will benefit from this discussion, particularly those interested in the differences between nova and supernova events.
