Compare the brightness evolution of different supernova types over time
Thermonuclear explosion of a white dwarf that accretes mass from a companion. Peak luminosity is remarkably consistent (~10⁹ L☉), making them excellent "standard candles" for measuring cosmic distances.
Core collapse of a red supergiant with intact hydrogen envelope. Shows a distinctive "plateau" phase lasting ~100 days as the photosphere recedes through the hydrogen layer.
Core collapse with partially stripped hydrogen envelope. Shows linear decline after peak without plateau phase. Less hydrogen than II-P but more than Ib/c types.
Core collapse of massive stars that lost their outer layers. No hydrogen lines (Ib has helium, Ic lacks both). Associated with long gamma-ray bursts in some cases.