Hydrodynamic Mechanism for Clumping along the Equatorial Rings of SN1987A and Other Stars

An explanation for the origin and number of clumps along the equatorial ring of Supernova 1987A has eluded decades of research. Our linear analysis and hydrodynamic simulations of the expanding ring prior to the supernova reveal that it is subject to the Crow instability between vortex cores. The do...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Physical review letters 2024-03, Vol.132 (11), p.111201-111201, Article 111201
Main Authors: Wadas, Michael J, White, William J, LeFevre, Heath J, Kuranz, Carolyn C, Towne, Aaron, Johnsen, Eric
Format: Article
Language:English
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Summary:An explanation for the origin and number of clumps along the equatorial ring of Supernova 1987A has eluded decades of research. Our linear analysis and hydrodynamic simulations of the expanding ring prior to the supernova reveal that it is subject to the Crow instability between vortex cores. The dominant wave number is remarkably consistent with the number of clumps, suggesting that the Crow instability stimulates clump formation. Although the present analysis focuses on linear fluid flow, future nonlinear analysis and the incorporation of additional stellar physics may further elucidate the remnant structure and the evolution of the progenitor and other stars.
ISSN:0031-9007
1079-7114
DOI:10.1103/PhysRevLett.132.111201