Astronomy quiz question: nova explosion requirement

Astronomy 210 Quiz 5, fall semester 2012
Cuesta College, San Luis Obispo, CA

A white dwarf requires __________ in order to undergo a nova explosion.
(A) a dusty debris ring.
(B) dark matter.
(C) hydrogen from a companion star.
(D) a nearby type II supernova explosion.

Correct answer: (C)

A nova explosion occurs when a thin layer of hydrogen from a companion star coats a white dwarf, and undergoes fusion.

Section 70158
Exam code: quiz05sNv4
(A) : 0 students
(B) : 0 students
(C) : 25 students
(D) : 8 students

Success level: 77% (including partial credit for multiple-choice)
Discrimination index (Aubrecht & Aubrecht, 1983): 0.44

Section 70160
Exam code: quiz05N3w7
(A) : 0 students
(B) : 0 students
(C) : 25 students
(D) : 2 students

Success level: 93% (including partial credit for multiple-choice)
Discrimination index (Aubrecht & Aubrecht, 1983): 0.14