On the Progenitors of Type Ia Supernovae

TL;DR

This review examines various models for Type Ia supernova progenitors, highlighting their challenges and suggesting multiple channels may contribute to these supernovae, with further research needed for each scenario.

Contribution

It provides a comprehensive comparison of all proposed progenitor models and emphasizes the need for detailed scrutiny of alternative scenarios.

Findings

All models face significant observational challenges.

Multiple progenitor channels are likely responsible for SNe Ia.

Further detailed studies are required for non-single-degenerate scenarios.

Abstract

We review all the models proposed for the progenitor systems of Type Ia supernovae and discuss the strengths and weaknesses of each scenario when confronted with observations. We show that all scenarios encounter at least a few serious diffculties, if taken to represent a comprehensive model for the progenitors of all Type Ia supernovae (SNe Ia). Consequently, we tentatively conclude that there is probably more than one channel leading SNe Ia. While the single-degenerate scenario (in which a single white dwarf accretes mass from a normal stellar companion) has been studied in some detail, the other scenarios will need a similar level of scrutiny before any firm conclusions can be drawn.