GAMMA-RAY LIGHT CURVES AND SPECTRA OF MODELS FOR TYPE-IA SUPERNOVAE

Based on detailed Monte Carlo calculations, we present gamma-ray energ y deposition functions, gamma-ray light curves, and gamma-ray spectra for a large set of theoretical models of Type Ia supernovae including ''classical'' detonation and deflagration, delayed detonation, explosi ons of low mass white dwarfs, and tamped detonation scenarios. Our com putations show that models for Type Ia supernovae can be discriminated and the absolute amount of Ni-56 synthesized in the event can be dete rmined on the basis of the gamma-ray light curves and spectra if gamma -ray measurements are combined with observations at other wavelengths, e.g., in the optical band. We discuss at which times gamma-ray observ ations are most suitable and needed from the theoretical point of view . The implication of the upper limit in the gamma-ray flux by CGRO exp eriment for our understanding of SN 1998 T is discussed. We find that this limit is consistent with both the optical light curve and the imp lied distance (12.5 Mpc), i.e., several models can be ruled out by the gamma-ray observations.