Abstract
We briefly describe the characteristics of Type I supernova outbursts and we present the theoretical models so far advanced to explain them. We especially insist n models based on the explosion of a white dwarf in a close binary , even regarding the recent division of Type I supernovae into the Ia and Ib subtypes. Together with models assuming explosive thermonuclear burning in a fluid interior1 we consider in some detail those based on partially solid interiors. We discuss models that incorporate nonthermonuclear energy contributions suggested in order to explain Type Ib outbursts.
