Gamma Ray Burst triggering Supernova Explosion (and other effects on neighbouring stars)

TL;DR

This paper explores how gamma ray bursts (GRBs) can trigger supernova explosions in binary star systems, affect nearby stars, and potentially influence star formation in interstellar clouds, highlighting their broader astrophysical impact.

Contribution

It proposes a new mechanism where GRBs can initiate supernovae in binary systems and examines their effects on neighboring stars and star formation processes.

Findings

GRBs can trigger supernova explosions in binary systems.

GRBs influence nearby main sequence and white dwarf stars.

GRBs may retard star formation in interstellar clouds.

Abstract

The initial burst of a gamma ray burst (GRB) is usually followed by a longer-lived afterglow emitted at longer wavelengths. The evidence for a physical connection between GRBs and core collapse supernovae (SN) has increased since the discovery of GRB afterglows. So far SN signatures have been found in only a few GRBs. Here we propose the possibility of a GRB triggering the collapse of a WR or RG star in a binary system producing a SN, and typical signatures. We also look at the effects of GRBs on MS and WD stars in the neighbourhood. The possibility of GRBs retarding star formation in an interstellar cloud is also discussed.