What is the main source of energy for a supernova explosion?

Answer 1

The main source of energy for a supernova explosion comes from the core collapse of a massive star, typically more than eight times the mass of the Sun. As the star exhausts its nuclear fuel, it can no longer support itself against gravitational collapse, leading to an implosion. This collapse generates immense heat and pressure, resulting in a rebound effect that ejects the outer layers of the star violently into space. Additionally, rapid neutron capture processes (r-process) and the release of gravitational energy contribute to the explosive energy of the supernova.