Generalized Semi-Analytical Models of Supernova Light Curves

TL;DR

This paper develops generalized semi-analytical models for supernova light curves, incorporating ejecta-CSM interaction, radioactive decay, and radiative diffusion, to better understand diverse supernova observations.

Contribution

It introduces a hybrid light curve model combining ejecta-CSM interaction with radioactive decay, improving fits to super-luminous supernovae like SN 2006gy.

Findings

The ejecta-CSM interaction luminosity matches radiation hydrodynamics simulations.

The hybrid model fits the light curve of SN 2006gy better than previous models.

Ejecta-CSM interaction can explain the diversity of Type IIn and SLSN light curves.

Abstract

We present generalized supernova (SN) light curve (LC) models for a variety of power inputs. We provide an expression for the power input that is produced by self-similar forward and reverse shocks in SN ejecta - circumstellar matter (CSM) interaction. We find that this ejecta-CSM interaction luminosity is in agreement with results from multi-dimensional radiation hydrodynamics simulations in the optically-thin case. We develop a model for the case of an optically-thick CSM by invoking an approximation for the effects of radiative diffusion. In the context of this model, we provide predictions for the time of forward shock break-out from the optically-thick part of the CSM envelope. We also introduce a hybrid LC model that incorporates ejecta-CSM interaction plus Ni-56 and Co-56 radioactive decay input. We fit this hybrid model to the LC of the Super-Luminous Supernova (SLSN) 2006gy. We find that this model provides a better fit to the LC of this event than previously presented models. We also address the relation between Type IIL and Type IIn SN with ejecta-CSM interaction models. Forward and reverse shock power input due to CSM interaction can produce the LCs of Type IIn SNe in terms of duration, shape and decline rate. This model can also produce LCs that are symmetric in shape around peak luminosity. We conclude that the observed LC variety of SNe Type IIn and of the SLSNe is likely to be a byproduct of the large range of conditions relevant to significant ejecta-CSM interaction as a power source.