Nova Mechanism
A nova can occur in a binary system in which one star is a more normal star
and it has a white dwarf companion. Matter from the first star accretes in
a thin layer on the surface of the white dwarf, either because of the other
star filling its Roche lobe and spilling matter onto the white dwarf
(typically through an accretion disk), or because of a strong wind from the
other star that the white dwarf captures onto its surface.
Eventually this layer ignites in a thermonuclear explosion under degenerate
conditions. The resulting thermonuclear runaway blows a thin surface layer
off into space, causing a large rise in light output from the system.
Usage:
Click "Play" to begin and "Stop" to pause.
"Step" moves forward one frame and "Back" moves backwards one frame.
The animation ends with the nova explosion.
"Home" returns to the beginning from any point.