Smashnova Model

TL;DR

The paper proposes the Smashnova model, where tidal heating-induced supernovae in close WD-NS binaries lead to gamma-ray bursts, with various scenarios including impacts on red giants and Thorne-Zytkow objects.

Contribution

It introduces a novel model linking supernovae and gamma-ray bursts through close binary interactions involving white dwarfs and neutron stars.

Findings

White dwarf detonation can trigger supernovae in close binaries.

Material impact on neutron stars can cause collapse into magnetars or black holes.

The model explains the sequence of supernova followed by gamma-ray bursts.

Abstract

An alternate model for gamma ray bursts is suggested. For a white dwarf (WD) and neutron star (NS) very close binary system, the WD (close to Mch) can detonate due to tidal heating, leading to a SN. Material falling on to the NS at relativistic velocities can cause its collapse to a magnetar or quark star or black hole leading to a GRB. As the material smashes on to the NS, it is dubbed the Smashnova model. Here the SN is followed by a GRB. NS impacting a RG (or RSG) (like in Thorne-Zytkow objects) can also cause a SN outburst followed by a GRB. Other variations are explored.