When mass transfer in a binary system involves mass transferred to a white dwarf, the result is a nova. When the mass is transferred to a neutron star, the result is a(n)

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

When mass is transferred to a neutron star, the intense gravitational field of the neutron star causes the accreted material to heat up and eventually undergo nuclear fusion, leading to a sudden release of energy observed as an X-ray burst. This phenomenon is known as an X-ray burster.

When Mass Transfer in a Binary System Involves Mass Transferred