Models for Type Ia Supernovae

Even assuming a Chandrasekhar Mass white dwarf as the common starting point for Type la supernova explosions, there remain many uncertainties in the t heoretical outcome. Here particular attention is paid to the ignition condi tions, which may be largely responsible for the observed diversity in obser vations. The advantages of and physical uncertainties of models based upon pure deflagration and delayed detonation are discussed with the conclusion that the former is more easily achieved.