Nebular Spectra from Type Ia Supernova Explosion Models Compared to JWST Observations of SN 2021Aefx

Context. Recent JWST observations of the Type Ia supernova (SN Ia) 2021aefx in the nebular phase have paved the way for late-time studies covering the full optical to mid-infrared (MIR) wavelength range, and with it the hope to better constrain SN Ia explosion mechanisms. Aims. We investigate whether public SN Ia models covering a broad range of progenitor scenarios and explosion mechanisms (Chandrasekhar-mass, or M-Ch, delayed detonations, pulsationally assisted gravitationally confined detonations, sub-M-Ch double detonations, and violent mergers) can reproduce the full optical-MIR spectrum of SN 2021aefx at similar to 270 days post explosion. Methods. We consider spherically averaged 3D models available from the Heidelberg Supernova Model Archive with a Ni-56 yield in the range 0.5-0.8 M-circle dot. We performed 1D steady-state non-local thermodynamic equilibrium simulations with the radiative-transfer code CMFGEN, and compared the predicted spectra to SN 2021aefx. Results. The models can explain the main features of SN 2021aefx over the full wavelength range. However, no single model, or mechanism, emerges as a preferred match, and the predicted spectra are similar to each other despite the very different explosion mechanisms. We discuss possible causes for the mismatch of the models, including ejecta asymmetries and ionisation effects. Our new calculations of the collisional strengths for NiIII have a major impact on the two prominent lines at 7.35 mu m and 11.00 mu m, and highlight the need for more accurate collisional data for forbidden transitions. Using updated atomic data, we identify a strong feature due to [CaIV] 3.21 mu m, attributed to [NiI] in previous studies. We also provide a tentative identification of a forbidden line due to [NeII] 12.81 mu m, whose peaked profile indicates the presence of neon all the way to the innermost region of the ejecta, as predicted for instance in violent merger models. Contrary to previous claims, we show that the [ArIII] 8.99 mu m line can be broader in sub-M-Ch models compared to near-M-Ch models. Last, the total luminosity in lines of Ni is found to correlate strongly with the stable nickel yield, although ionisation effects can bias the inferred abundance. Conclusions. Our models suggest that key physical ingredients are missing from either the explosion models, or the radiative-transfer post-processing, or both. Nonetheless, they also show the potential of the near- and MIR to uncover new spectroscopic diagnostics of SN Ia explosion mechanisms.