The difference between a nova and an X-ray burst is that a nova involves an explosion on the surface of a _____ whereas an X-ray burst involves a(n) _____.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A nova involves an explosion on the surface of a white dwarf, typically caused by the accretion of hydrogen onto the surface from a companion star, which then ignites in a thermonuclear explosion. An X-ray burst, on the other hand, occurs on the surface of a neutron star, often due to similar accretion processes that lead to thermonuclear explosions but in the much denser and more extreme environment of a neutron star.

The Difference Between a Nova and an X-Ray Burst Is