Dynamical Mergers

Abstract

Thermonuclear supernovae, also known as Type Ia supernovae (SNe Ia), are the result of the explosion of carbon-oxygen white dwarfs. Given that they are one of the most powerful events in the universe, they can be seen at very large distances. Moreover, the homogeneity of their observed light curves allows us to use them as standardizable cosmological candles. However, despite their intrinsic importance and their extraordinary relevance, the nature of the progenitor systems that give rise to SNe Ia has not been hitherto elucidated. One of the possible scenarios, but not the only one, leading to a SN Ia outburst is the dynamical merger of a double white dwarf binary system. In fact, there exists observational evidence favoring this channel, although this theoretical paradigm is not exempt of problems either. Nevertheless, the coalescence of two degenerate stars can provide explanations for other yet unexplained astrophysical phenomena and consequently deserves close scrutiny. Here we review the current status of the research area, and we discuss the possible applications of the coalescence of two white dwarfs.