Researchers from various institutes have conducted a study using the Optical and Infrared Synergetic Telescopes for Education and Research (OISTER) program and the Subaru telescope to observe the Type Iax supernova (SN Iax) 2012Z. The study, carried out from the moment of explosion until approximately 260 days after the maximum luminosity, aims to gain insight into the behavior and characteristics of this unique type of supernova. By analyzing the observations, the team has made several intriguing discoveries that provide valuable information about SN Iax 2012Z and its similarities and differences compared to other supernovae.
What are the observations of the Type Iax supernova 2012Z?
The team utilized both optical and near-infrared wavelengths to observe SN Iax 2012Z. By studying the light emitted by the supernova, they were able to analyze key aspects such as its luminosity and color evolution. The researchers observed notable similarities between SN Iax 2012Z and two other supernovae, namely SNe Iax 2005hk and 2008ha. These similarities allowed for a deeper understanding of the characteristics and nature of SN Iax 2012Z.
What are the similarities and differences between the NIR light curve evolutions of SNe Iax 2012Z, 2005hk, and 2008ha?
The near-infrared (NIR) light curve evolutions of SNe Iax 2012Z, 2005hk, and 2008ha share notable similarities. The researchers found that the NIR light curves of SN Iax 2012Z and SN 2005hk evolve in a similar manner. This similarity can be indicative of comparable physical properties and processes involved in the explosions of these two supernovae. However, SN 2010ae displayed different NIR light curve behavior, indicating potential deviations in its underlying mechanisms.
What are the absolute magnitudes and rate of decline of the light curve for SNe Iax 2012Z, 2005hk, and 2008ha?
The researchers measured the absolute magnitudes and rate of decline of the light curve for SNe Iax 2012Z, 2005hk, and 2008ha. They found that the NIR absolute magnitudes of SN Iax 2012Z are similar to those of SN 2005hk. Both supernovae exhibited comparable magnitudes, with SN Iax 2012Z at approximately -18.1 mag (J-band) and -18.3 mag (H-band), and SN 2005hk at around -17.7 mag (J-band) and -18.0 mag (H-band).
Furthermore, the rate of decline of the light curve, known as Δm15(B), was found to be approximately 1.6 mag for both SN Iax 2012Z and SN 2005hk. In contrast, SN 2008ha displayed different characteristics, with absolute magnitudes ranging from -14 to -15 mag and a higher Δm15(B) value of approximately 2.4-2.7 mag.
What is the estimated rise time of SN Iax 2012Z?
An important finding of the study is the estimated rise time of SN Iax 2012Z. The researchers determined that the rise time for this supernova is only 12.0 ± 3.0 days. This relatively short duration suggests a rapid expansion of the supernova, indicating the possibility of an extended distribution of nickel-56 (^56Ni) into the outer layers or a lower effective opacity compared to normal Type Ia supernovae.
What is the significance of the broader emission lines in the late-phase spectrum of SN Iax 2012Z?
The late-phase spectrum of SN Iax 2012Z revealed the presence of broader emission lines compared to SN 2005hk. These emission lines exhibited velocities approximately 6-8 times higher, indicating a more extensive density profile of the inner ejecta when compared to SN 2005hk. This finding provides insights into the unique explosion dynamics and structural properties of SN Iax 2012Z, shedding light on the mechanisms at play during its formation.
What is the most favored explosion scenario for SN Iax 2012Z?
After considering the observations and data gathered, the researchers suggest that the most likely explosion scenario for SN Iax 2012Z is a “failed deflagration model.” This model proposes that the explosion was not sufficient to completely destroy the white dwarf star, resulting in a partial deflagration rather than a full detonation. However, the researchers also acknowledge that the potential involvement of pulsational delayed detonations cannot be completely ruled out.
The findings from this study on SN Iax 2012Z contribute to our understanding of the peculiar nature of Type Iax supernovae and their distinguishing features. By examining the observations of this specific supernova and comparing them to previous cases, researchers can refine existing theoretical models and develop a more comprehensive understanding of supernova explosions.
For more detailed information, you can read the full research article here.
Leave a Reply