Supernova 1987A provided an important confirmation of astronomers' understanding ofType II supernova. The significant observation was:
A)the color of the supernova.
B)the shape of the supernova.
C)the type of star that produced the supernova.
D)the detection of neutrinos in advance of the light from the supernova.
E)the detection of a burst of neutrinos shortly after the light from the supernova.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The detection of neutrinos in advance of the light from the supernova was the significant observation that confirmed astronomers' understanding of Type II supernovae. This was because it provided direct evidence of the core-collapse model, which predicted the production of neutrinos during the collapse of the star's core. The detection of a burst of neutrinos shortly after the light from the supernova (choice E) also provided important confirmation, but it was the detection of neutrinos in advance that was particularly significant. The color, shape, and type of star that produced the supernova (choices A, B, and C) may provide additional information about the supernova, but they are not essential for confirming the Type II supernova model. The significant observation from Supernova 1987A was the detection of neutrinos in advance of the light from the supernova. This confirmed the theoretical understanding of Type II supernovae and provided evidence for the role of neutrinos in the explosion process.

Supernova 1987A Provided an Important Confirmation of Astronomers' Understanding OfType