Explorations: Introduction to Astronomy (Arny), 6th Edition

Chapter 13: Measuring the Properties of Stars

Thought Questions

1
Would it be easier to measure a star's parallax from Pluto? Why?
2
Suppose a binary star's orbit is in a plane perpendicular to our line of sight. Can we measure its mass using the methods described in this chapter? Why?
3

Use the data in table 12.6 below to plot an H-R diagram. Which star is a red giant? Which is a white dwarf? Note: Plotting will be much easier if you plot the logarithm of the luminosity; that is, express it in powers of 10 and use the power. For example, if the luminosity is 100, plot it as 2 for 102. Alternatively, use a pocket calculator as follows. Enter the luminosity in solar units and hit the "log" key. If the luminosity is 300,000, the answer you get should be 5.477. . . .

table 12.6 (26.0K)
4
Why are the hydrogen Balmer lines weaker in O and B stars than they are in A stars?
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