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Encyclopediasupernovasupernova, a massive star in the latter stages of stellar evolution that suddenly contracts and then explodes, increasing its energy output as much as a billionfold. Supernovas are the principal distributors of heavy elements throughout the universe; all elements heavier than iron are produced in supernovas. Supernovas also are the principal heat source for interstellar matter and may be a source of cosmic rays. Recent discoveries have confirmed an underlying connection between supernovas and gamma-ray bursts (GRBs). Both are associated with the deaths of massive stars and they often happen nearly simultaneously. There is no generally agreed upon model for how a massive star explodes. However, the association with gamma rays has renewed interest in the role played by stellar rotation and magnetic fields. Sections in this article: The Columbia Electronic Encyclopedia, 6th ed. Copyright © 2007, Columbia University Press. All rights reserved. More on supernova from Infoplease:
- SUPERNOVAS - A massive star dies in an explosion called a supernova. Only the collapsed core remains. If the core is very dense it becomes a neutron star which rot
- Supernova - Supernova Director: Thomas Lee Writer: David Wilson MGM Pictures; PG-13; 91 minutes Release: 1/00 ...
- Supernova - Supernova Director: Thomas Lee Writer: David Wilson MGM Pictures; PG-13; 91 minutes Release: 1/00 ...
- Supernova - Starring Angela Bassett, James Spader, Robert Forester, Peter Facinelli, Lou Diamond Phillips
- supernova: Distribution of Supernovas - Distribution of Supernovas At peak intensity, a supernova can shine as brightly as the entire ...
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