Some processes cannot be reproduced in laboratories, but to create an imitation of the process for a better understanding of physical and other phenomena, scientists can do it. Want to see supernovas explode? Visit the Georgia Institute of Technology, they just launched a "machine" to simulate supernova explosions.
Georgia Tech Researchers a laboratory setup for the practical study of the explosive propagation of a mixture of light and heavy gases. Similar processes accompany supernova explosions. Nuclear fusion in the cores of stars fades, and gravity wins the battle with the buoyant forces of fusion. The gas envelope of collapsing stars is compressed and a supernova explosion occurs with a turbulent ejection of gases and matter. As a result, beautiful nebulae appear in the sky, the appearance of which is a consequence of the distribution of gases of various densities around a neutron star or a black hole - all that is left of the star.
The presented laboratory setup simulates the process of an explosion in a small sector of a star model. The installation resembles a pizza slice 1,8 m high and up to 1,2 m wide. In the center of the installation there is a transparent window through which processes are recorded using high-speed photography. The facility is filled with gases of various densities, similar in composition and state to those that fill the shells of stars. The explosion of the nucleus is imitated by two explosives: the main one is hexogen and, as a detonator, pentaerythritoltetranitrate.
Explosive explosion pushes low-lying heavy gases through layers of less heavy gases and fancifully twists gas mixtures. According to scientists, this is not only beautiful, but also useful in terms of measuring the speed of movement of gases of different densities.
Laboratory experiments with the "supernova engine" can give astronomers data to more accurately calculate the formation of cosmic objects such as nebulae. Finally, the understanding of some phenomena may give a clue to the creation of a thermonuclear reactor on Earth.
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Source: 3dnews.ru