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By accretion of hydrogen from a nearby star which ignites and starts nuclear fusion in a runaway manner. The explosion is only on the surface of the white dwarf - this is a nova [See related question]
If however, it accretes enough hydrogen to push it's mass over the Chandrasekhar limit [See related link] of about 1.38 solar masses, the whole white dwarf will explode as a supernova type Ia [See related link]
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RossA white dwarf can suddenly explode in a supernova if it accretes enough material from a companion star to surpass the Chandrasekhar limit (about 1.4 solar masses), causing a runaway nuclear fusion reaction. This releases an immense amount of energy, completely disrupting the star.
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What causes a white dwarf supernova?
A white dwarf supernova occurs when a white dwarf star in a binary system accretes material from a companion star, causing it to exceed the Chandrasekhar limit (1.4 solar masses). The core then undergoes a runaway nuclear fusion reaction, leading to a catastrophic explosion that destroys the white dwarf.
What is the next stage in the life of a lower-mass main-sequence star?
white dwarf. unless you count black dwarf of which none have been observed, only theorized.
Are any of the 20 nearest or 20 brightest stars white dwarf?
Yes, some of the 20 nearest stars are white dwarfs. For example, Sirius B, the companion star to Sirius A, is a white dwarf. Among the 20 brightest stars, Sirius B is the only white dwarf.
Is it true or fault that A white dwarf star is about the same size as the sun?
False. A white dwarf star is much smaller in size compared to the sun. A white dwarf is typically about the size of the Earth, whereas the sun is much larger, around 100 times wider and more massive than a white dwarf star.
Which dwarf had no beard?
Dopey, the youngest and silliest dwarf in "Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs," is known for being the only one without a beard.
