If the theory that novae occur in close binary systems is correct, then recurrent novae should
A)produce synchrotron radiation.
B)occur in regions of star formation.
C)not occur in old star clusters.
D)all be visual binaries.
E)repeat after some interval.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Recurrent novae, as the name suggests, repeat after some interval. This is because they occur in close binary systems where a white dwarf is accreting matter from a companion star. As the accretion proceeds, the pressure and temperature increase until a thermonuclear runaway occurs leading to a nova explosion. However, the white dwarf does not completely consume all the accreted matter, and the cycle repeats after some time when enough material has accumulated again. Therefore, recurrent novae are expected to repeat after some interval.

If the Theory That Novae Occur in Close Binary Systems