Astronomy
The Evolution of Binary Star Systems and Mass Transfer Phenomena
Quick fact
About half of all stars are in binary systems. When one star expands into a red giant, it can dump material onto its companion, sometimes causing the smaller star to explode as a nova or even a supernova.
Why this is interesting
You've probably seen a single star like the Sun, but did you know most stars are born with a partner? When these twin stars grow old, they can literally eat each other, and that's when the real fireworks begin.