Introduction to Supernovas and Neutron Stars

These flashcards cover key vocabulary and concepts related to supernovas and neutron stars, as discussed in the lecture notes.

Supernova

A stellar explosion that occurs at the end of a star's life cycle.

Type II Supernova

A supernova that occurs when the iron core of a massive star collapses, potentially leaving behind a neutron star.

Neutron Star

A small, dense remnant of a supernova, composed almost entirely of neutrons.

Neutron Degeneracy Pressure

The quantum mechanical pressure that arises from the Pauli exclusion principle, preventing neutrons from occupying the same space.

Shock Wave

A powerful wave that results from the explosive energy release of a supernova.

Quantum Degeneracy Pressure

The pressure exerted by particles that cannot occupy the same quantum state, supporting neutron stars from collapsing further.

Mass of a Neutron Star

Although very small in size, a neutron star has a mass greater than that of the sun.

Magnetic Field of Neutron Star

A strong magnetic field generated by the fast rotation of the neutron star.