What process drives the visible Type II supernova explosion?

Answer

A rebound shockwave that races outward after colliding with the rigid, ultra-dense core.

When the infalling core material slams into the newly rigid center (at nuclear densities), it generates a powerful rebound shockwave that races outward, heating the remaining stellar material and driving the spectacular explosion.

What process drives the visible Type II supernova explosion?

#Videos

How Quickly Does A Supernova Happen? The Stunning Speed of a ...

supernovaastrophysicsmassive starstar collapsetime scale