Source: The post is based on the article “What is a kilonova?” published in The Hindu on 11th February 2023.
What is the News?
Researchers have confirmed the detection of a star system that will one day end in a kilonova.
Scientists believe that only ten-star systems that exist in the Milky Way will end in kilonova. The newfound one has been labelled as CPD-29 2176 and is located about 11,400 light-years from the earth.
What is Kilonova?
A kilonova is a cosmic event that occurs when a neutron star smashes into another neutron star or a black hole.
It releases heavy metals like gold, silver, and selenium into outer space at tremendous velocities, as well as radiation.
A kilonova radiation also accompanies a gamma-ray burst, one of the most energetic cosmic events ever known.
What is a Neutron Star?
Neutron stars are formed when a massive star runs out of fuel and collapses. The very central region of the star – the core – collapses, crushing together every proton and electron into a neutron.
If the core of the collapsing star is between about 1 and 3 solar masses, these newly-created neutrons can stop the collapse, leaving behind a neutron star.
Many neutron stars are likely undetectable because they simply do not emit enough radiation.
Discover more from Free UPSC IAS Preparation Syllabus and Materials For Aspirants
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
