Pulsar theory of supernova light curves. II. The light curve and the continuous spectrum

Journal Article · Thu Sep 15 04:00:00 EDT 1977 · Astrophys. J.; (United States)

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1086/155530· OSTI ID:7289139

Gaffet, B

We present calculations of supernova (SN) light curves that assume the existence of a central pulsar. We have shown in Paper I that absorption of the pulsar waves can occur only after some cooling has taken place, and that the pulsar acts as a thermostat, keeping central temperature fixed around 1.3 x 10/sup 4/ K. The main absorption process is particle acceleration by the strong waves. Several difficulties inherent in most existing models are solved in this way, especially the rapid rise of luminosity before maximum, and the observed high values of expansion velocities. A good fit of the typical SN Type II light curves has been obtained. Furthermore, the continuous spectrum and the observed temperatures of about 1.0 x 10/sup 4/ K near maximum can be explained easily in this model.

• Research Organization: Division de la Physique, Section Etudes Spatiales, Centre d'Etudes Nucleaires de Saclay, B.P. 2, 91190 Gif-sur-Yvette, France
• OSTI ID: 7289139
• Journal Information: Astrophys. J.; (United States), Journal Name: Astrophys. J.; (United States) Vol. 216:3; ISSN ASJOA
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

640102* -- Astrophysics & Cosmology-- Stars & Quasi-Stellar
Radio & X-Ray Sources
71 CLASSICAL AND QUANTUM MECHANICS
GENERAL PHYSICS
COSMIC RADIO SOURCES
ENERGY SPECTRA
FUNCTIONS
MATHEMATICAL MODELS
PULSARS
SHOCK WAVES
SPECTRA
SPECTRAL FUNCTIONS
STAR MODELS
STARS
SUPERNOVAE
THERMAL DIFFUSION
THERMODYNAMICS