Astronomy Ultimate Trivia Quiz: MCQ Test!
What do you know about astronomy? Astronomy is a fascinating but complex subject. Professional astronomy is separated into observational and theoretical branches. Observational astronomy is concerned with obtaining information from observations of these celestial beings. The data is then analyzed using basic principles of physics. Theoretical astronomy is directed toward the creation of computer or analytical models to describe astronomical items and phenomena. This remarkable astronomy quiz will have you over the moon.
Questions and Answers
- 1.
The region of the Sun that contains sunspots and granulation is the?
- A.
Photosphere
- B.
Lithosphere
- C.
Chromosphere
- D.
Corona
Correct Answer
A. PhotosphereExplanation
The photosphere is the correct answer because it is the region of the Sun that is visible to the naked eye. It is the outermost layer of the Sun's interior and is responsible for the granulation and sunspots that can be observed on its surface. The photosphere is composed of hot, dense gases and is where most of the Sun's energy is emitted as visible light. The other options, such as the lithosphere, chromosphere, and corona, are not applicable as they refer to different layers or regions of the Earth or the Sun.Rate this question:
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- 2.
The region of the Sun that can be easily seen with the naked eye only during a total solar eclipse is the?
- A.
Photosphere
- B.
Lithosphere
- C.
Chromosphere
- D.
Corona
Correct Answer
D. CoronaExplanation
The corona is the correct answer because it is the outermost layer of the Sun's atmosphere that can only be seen during a total solar eclipse. The corona appears as a faint, glowing halo around the Sun when the Moon completely blocks its bright surface. This phenomenon allows us to observe the corona's delicate structures and study its properties, such as the high temperatures and solar wind that it emits. The photosphere, lithosphere, and chromosphere are not visible during a total solar eclipse.Rate this question:
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- 3.
The region of the Sun that is 1.7 times hotter than the surface and is the PRIMARY source of ultraviolet (UV) radiation is the?
- A.
Photosphere
- B.
Lithosphere
- C.
Chromosphere
- D.
Corona
Correct Answer
C. ChromosphereExplanation
The chromosphere is the region of the Sun that is 1.7 times hotter than the surface and is the primary source of ultraviolet (UV) radiation. The photosphere is the visible surface of the Sun, the lithosphere refers to the solid outer layer of a planet, and the corona is the outermost layer of the Sun's atmosphere. Therefore, the chromosphere is the correct answer as it matches the given description.Rate this question:
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- 4.
The surface temperature of the Sun is approximately?
- A.
4,900 K
- B.
5,800 K
- C.
6,200 K
- D.
6,800 K
Correct Answer
B. 5,800 KExplanation
The surface temperature of the Sun is approximately 5,800 K. This is the correct answer because it is widely accepted by scientists and is based on extensive research and observations. The temperature of the Sun's surface is determined by measuring the intensity of its radiation and analyzing its spectrum. The estimated temperature of 5,800 K is consistent with the Sun's characteristics and is within the range of temperatures observed in other stars of similar size and age.Rate this question:
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- 5.
When we observe the Sun in VISIBLE light, sunspots appear dark because
- A.
They are cooler than the surrounding photosphere by about 2,000 K
- B.
They are hotter than the surrounding photosphere by about 2,000 K
- C.
They provide evidence of carbon burning just below the solar surface
- D.
Their intense magnetic field lines absord visible light photons
Correct Answer
A. They are cooler than the surrounding photosphere by about 2,000 KExplanation
Sunspots appear dark in visible light because they are cooler than the surrounding photosphere by about 2,000 K. Cooler regions emit less light, so the sunspots appear darker compared to the hotter surrounding areas.Rate this question:
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- 6.
A blackbody curve shows the wavelength peak of the Sun's radiation is in the middle of the ______ region of the electromagnetic spectrum.
- A.
Infrared
- B.
Radio
- C.
Ultraviolet
- D.
Visable
- E.
X-ray
Correct Answer
D. VisableExplanation
The given correct answer is "visible". A blackbody curve shows the wavelength peak of the Sun's radiation in the middle of the visible region of the electromagnetic spectrum. This means that the Sun emits the most amount of radiation at wavelengths that are visible to the human eye, resulting in the perception of visible light.Rate this question:
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- 7.
The solar corona is so hot it emits MAINLY _______ radiation.
- A.
Infrared
- B.
Radio
- C.
Ultraviolet
- D.
Visible
- E.
X-Ray
Correct Answer
E. X-RayExplanation
The solar corona, the outermost layer of the Sun's atmosphere, is extremely hot and emits mainly X-ray radiation. X-rays have shorter wavelengths and higher energy than visible light, ultraviolet, and infrared radiation. This high energy radiation is produced by the intense heat and magnetic activity in the corona, and it provides valuable information about the Sun's composition, temperature, and activity. X-ray radiation from the solar corona is important for studying solar flares, coronal mass ejections, and other phenomena that can affect Earth's space weather.Rate this question:
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- 8.
The temperature of the Sun's _______ is about 15 x 10^6 K.
- A.
Sunspots
- B.
Corona
- C.
Core
- D.
Photosphere
- E.
Chromosphere
Correct Answer
C. CoreExplanation
The temperature of the Sun's core is about 15 x 10^6 K. The core of the Sun is the central region where nuclear fusion reactions occur, releasing a tremendous amount of energy. This high temperature is necessary for the fusion of hydrogen atoms into helium, which powers the Sun and produces its heat and light. The core is the hottest part of the Sun and is responsible for maintaining the Sun's overall temperature.Rate this question:
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- 9.
Solar ______ is a flow of energetic particles constantly streaming outward from the Sun.
- A.
Umbra
- B.
Wind
- C.
Prominence
- D.
Granulation
Correct Answer
B. WindExplanation
Solar wind is a flow of energetic particles constantly streaming outward from the Sun. It is a continuous stream of charged particles, mainly protons and electrons, that are ejected from the Sun's upper atmosphere at high speeds. This phenomenon is caused by the high temperature and high velocity of particles in the Sun's corona. Solar wind plays a crucial role in shaping the Earth's magnetosphere and influencing space weather.Rate this question:
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- 10.
Solar ______ is the name given to a filament projecting OUTSIDE the limb of the Sun where we an see it against the black background of space. These filaments are huge and can last for days.
- A.
Umbra
- B.
Wind
- C.
Prominence
- D.
Granulation
Correct Answer
C. ProminenceExplanation
A prominence is a name given to a filament projecting outside the limb of the Sun, visible against the black background of space. These filaments are massive and can persist for several days.Rate this question:
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- 11.
The sunspot cycle AVERAGES about ______ years long.
- A.
5
- B.
11
- C.
15
- D.
23
- E.
28
Correct Answer
B. 11Explanation
The sunspot cycle averages about 11 years long. This means that over a period of time, the cycle of sunspots on the sun's surface repeats itself approximately every 11 years. Sunspots are dark areas on the sun's surface that are caused by intense magnetic activity. The sunspot cycle is influenced by the sun's magnetic field, and it goes through periods of high and low activity. The average length of this cycle is approximately 11 years, although it can vary slightly.Rate this question:
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- 12.
At the center of the Sun, fusion converts hydrogen into
- A.
Plasma
- B.
Radiation and elements like carbon and nitrogen
- C.
Helium, energy, and neutrinos
- D.
All energy
Correct Answer
C. Helium, energy, and neutrinosExplanation
In the center of the Sun, fusion reactions occur where hydrogen atoms combine to form helium. This process releases a tremendous amount of energy in the form of radiation, which is what makes the Sun shine. Additionally, neutrinos are also produced during these fusion reactions. Therefore, the correct answer is helium, energy, and neutrinos.Rate this question:
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- 13.
Solar energy leaves the core of the Sun in the forms of
- A.
Photons
- B.
Rising hot gas
- C.
Sound waves
- D.
Gravity waves
Correct Answer
A. PhotonsExplanation
Solar energy is generated in the core of the Sun through nuclear fusion reactions. These reactions release an enormous amount of energy in the form of photons, which are packets of electromagnetic radiation. Photons are able to travel through space and reach the Earth, where they can be captured and converted into other forms of energy, such as electricity or heat. Therefore, photons are the primary form in which solar energy leaves the core of the Sun.Rate this question:
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- 14.
Our Sun is of spectral type ___.
- A.
G
- B.
B
- C.
K
- D.
M
- E.
O
Correct Answer
A. GExplanation
The correct answer is G. The spectral type of a star is determined by its surface temperature. The G spectral type corresponds to stars with temperatures around 5,500 to 6,000 Kelvin. Our Sun has a surface temperature of about 5,500 Kelvin, which falls within the G spectral type range.Rate this question:
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- 15.
Fusion in the Sun works by the process known as the ______. [Hint: One of the answers is a fake.]
- A.
Carbon-nitrogen-oxygen (CNO) chain
- B.
Proton-proton chain
- C.
Triple alpha process
- D.
Proton-neutron chain
Correct Answer
B. Proton-proton chainExplanation
The proton-proton chain is the correct answer for how fusion in the Sun works. This process involves the fusion of hydrogen nuclei (protons) to form helium. It is the dominant process in stars like the Sun, where the temperature and pressure are not high enough to initiate the carbon-nitrogen-oxygen (CNO) chain or the triple alpha process. The proton-neutron chain is not a valid process for fusion in the Sun.Rate this question:
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- 16.
Which one of the following star types is MOST like the Sun? [Read the possible answers carefully!]
- A.
O dwarf
- B.
G9 supergiant
- C.
White dwarf
- D.
F9 dwarf
Correct Answer
D. F9 dwarfExplanation
The F9 dwarf star is the most like the Sun because it has a similar spectral type and luminosity class. The Sun is a G-type main-sequence star, and the F9 dwarf falls close to this category. The other options, such as the O dwarf, G9 supergiant, and white dwarf, differ significantly from the Sun in terms of size, temperature, and stage of evolution.Rate this question:
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- 17.
The magnitude a star would have if it were placed at a standard distance of 10 parsecs is its
- A.
Apparent magnitude
- B.
Absolute magnitude
- C.
Standard magnitude
- D.
Standard luminosity
Correct Answer
B. Absolute magnitudeExplanation
The absolute magnitude of a star is the magnitude it would have if it were placed at a standard distance of 10 parsecs. This magnitude is a measure of a star's intrinsic brightness, allowing astronomers to compare the true brightness of stars regardless of their distance from Earth. It provides a standardized way of understanding and categorizing the luminosity of stars.Rate this question:
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- 18.
A temperature-luminosity diagram of stars usually includes a diagonal band called the
- A.
Main line
- B.
H-R line
- C.
Main sequence
- D.
Color index
Correct Answer
C. Main sequenceExplanation
A temperature-luminosity diagram of stars usually includes a diagonal band called the main sequence. The main sequence represents the majority of stars and shows the relationship between their temperature and luminosity. It is a line that runs from hot and bright stars to cool and dim stars. This band is important because it provides information about the stage of evolution and the size of stars. Stars in the main sequence are in a stable state, where they are fusing hydrogen into helium in their cores.Rate this question:
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- 19.
A binary star that varies in brightness as one component (Star A) passes in front of the other (Star B) is a(n)
- A.
Astrometric binary
- B.
Visual binary
- C.
Spectroscopic binary
- D.
Optical binary
- E.
Eclipsing binary
Correct Answer
E. Eclipsing binaryExplanation
An eclipsing binary is a binary star system in which the brightness of one star (Star A) appears to decrease as it passes in front of the other star (Star B) from our perspective on Earth. This phenomenon is known as an eclipse. The variation in brightness can be observed as periodic dips in the light curve of the system. Eclipsing binaries are important in studying stellar properties such as size, mass, and temperature, as well as in determining distances to star clusters and galaxies.Rate this question:
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- 20.
The MAIN value in the study of binary stars is the ability it gives astronomers to determine accurately the ______ of each star.
- A.
Color
- B.
Mass
- C.
Period
- D.
Size
- E.
Temperature
Correct Answer
B. MassExplanation
The main value in the study of binary stars is the ability it gives astronomers to determine accurately the mass of each star. By observing the gravitational interactions and orbital motions between the two stars in a binary system, astronomers can calculate the masses of the stars. This information is crucial for understanding stellar evolution, as the mass of a star determines its lifespan, energy production, and ultimate fate.Rate this question:
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- 21.
The period-luminosity relation applies to ______, supergiant stars that are very useful in measuring distances to nearby galaxies. (Hint: Polaris is an example)
- A.
Cepheid variables
- B.
Irregular variables
- C.
Eclipsing binaries
- D.
Mira variables
Correct Answer
A. Cepheid variablesExplanation
The period-luminosity relation is a relationship between the period of variability and the intrinsic luminosity of a star. Cepheid variables are a type of supergiant star that exhibit this relationship, making them useful in measuring distances to nearby galaxies. Polaris, also known as the North Star, is an example of a Cepheid variable. By studying the period of variability of Cepheid variables and comparing it to their observed luminosity, astronomers can determine their distances from Earth.Rate this question:
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- 22.
Star clusters with irregular shapes, composed of up to several thousand stars, and containing relatively young stars are called _____ clusters.
- A.
Globular
- B.
Standard star
- C.
Open
- D.
Closed
Correct Answer
C. OpenExplanation
Open clusters are star clusters that have irregular shapes and are composed of up to several thousand stars. They also contain relatively young stars. The term "open" refers to the fact that these clusters are loosely bound, with stars that are not gravitationally bound to each other. This is in contrast to globular clusters, which are tightly bound and have a spherical shape. Standard star and closed are not correct answers in this context.Rate this question:
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- 23.
Star clusters with tight, spherical shapes composed of up to a million stars, and containing old stars and little gas are called ______ clusters.
- A.
Globular
- B.
Standard star
- C.
Open
- D.
Closed
Correct Answer
A. GlobularExplanation
Globular clusters are star clusters that have a tight, spherical shape and are composed of up to a million stars. They are known for containing old stars and little gas. These clusters are different from open clusters, which have a looser and less symmetric shape. Standard star and closed clusters are not the correct terms to describe this type of cluster.Rate this question:
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- 24.
When thermal pressure outward balances gravity's inward pull on the gas in a star, we call this condition ______ equilibrium.
- A.
Radiative
- B.
Convective
- C.
Oscillating
- D.
Hydrostatic
Correct Answer
D. HydrostaticExplanation
When thermal pressure outward balances gravity's inward pull on the gas in a star, we call this condition hydrostatic equilibrium. In hydrostatic equilibrium, the pressure from the hot gas in the star's core pushes outward, counteracting the gravitational force pulling the gas inward. This balance of forces maintains the stability and shape of the star, preventing it from collapsing under its own gravity or expanding uncontrollably.Rate this question:
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- 25.
Low-mass stars (like the Sun) are born with _____ or FEWER solar masses.
- A.
1
- B.
2
- C.
4
- D.
5
- E.
8
Correct Answer
B. 2Explanation
Low-mass stars, like the Sun, are born with two or fewer solar masses. This means that their mass is equal to or less than two times the mass of the Sun.Rate this question:
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- 26.
A stellar-sized hot body that derives its energy from an ONGOING free-falling gravitational collapse (but NOT from thermonuclear reactions) is called a
- A.
Brown dwarf
- B.
Black dwarf
- C.
Main-sequence star
- D.
Neutron star
- E.
Black hole
Correct Answer
A. Brown dwarfExplanation
A stellar-sized hot body that derives its energy from an ongoing free-falling gravitational collapse (but not from thermonuclear reactions) is called a brown dwarf. Brown dwarfs are often referred to as "failed stars" as they do not have enough mass to sustain nuclear fusion like main-sequence stars. Instead, they emit energy from the residual heat left over from their formation and ongoing gravitational contraction. Brown dwarfs are not massive enough to become neutron stars or black holes, which are formed by different processes.Rate this question:
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- 27.
A star's main-sequence lifetime is the time the star spends on the main sequence as a
- A.
Hydrogen-fusing star
- B.
Helium-fusing star
- C.
Carbon-fusing star
- D.
Protostar
- E.
Red giant
Correct Answer
A. Hydrogen-fusing starExplanation
The correct answer is hydrogen-fusing star. A star's main-sequence lifetime refers to the period during which it fuses hydrogen in its core to form helium, releasing a tremendous amount of energy in the process. This is the phase where stars, like our Sun, spend the majority of their lives. Once a star exhausts its hydrogen fuel, it evolves into different stages, such as a red giant, where it fuses helium or other elements depending on its mass. Therefore, the term "hydrogen-fusing star" accurately describes the main-sequence phase of a star's life.Rate this question:
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- 28.
Compared with low-mass stars, high-mass stars have main-sequence lifetimes that are
- A.
Nearly the same
- B.
A lot shorter
- C.
5% shorter
- D.
A lot longer
- E.
10% longer
Correct Answer
B. A lot shorterExplanation
High-mass stars have main-sequence lifetimes that are a lot shorter compared to low-mass stars. This means that high-mass stars spend less time in the main sequence phase of their evolution before they exhaust their nuclear fuel and undergo further stages of stellar evolution. The intense energy production in high-mass stars leads to faster consumption of their fuel, resulting in shorter lifetimes on the main sequence.Rate this question:
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- 29.
______ pose the GREATEST hazard to communications satellites in Earth orbit.
- A.
Photons from the Sun
- B.
Solar magnetic fields
- C.
Protons from the Sun
- D.
Sunspots
Correct Answer
C. Protons from the SunExplanation
Protons from the Sun pose the greatest hazard to communications satellites in Earth orbit. Protons are high-energy particles that can cause damage to satellite electronics and solar panels. When protons collide with satellite components, they can create electrical charges that interfere with the satellite's operation. Additionally, protons can penetrate the satellite's protective shielding and cause radiation damage to sensitive equipment. Therefore, the presence of protons from the Sun is a significant threat to the functionality and longevity of communications satellites in Earth orbit.Rate this question:
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- 30.
Which ONE of the following is NOT a property of a star like the Sun when it is in its red giant phase?
- A.
Its diameter is 60X that of the Sun at present
- B.
It is very luminous---up to 10,000X more luminous than the Sun at present
- C.
Its lifespan at this stage is 10 million years or 0.1% of its stay on the main sequence
- D.
It has a cool surface temperature of 3,000 K
- E.
Its core will heat up enough for the triple-alpha process to begin to produce carbon
Correct Answer
C. Its lifespan at this stage is 10 million years or 0.1% of its stay on the main sequenceExplanation
In the red giant phase, a star like the Sun expands and becomes much larger in diameter. This is consistent with the statement that its diameter is 60 times that of the Sun at present. The red giant phase is also known for being very luminous, with the star becoming up to 10,000 times more luminous than the Sun at present. Additionally, the surface temperature of a red giant star is cooler, around 3,000 K. The core of a red giant star heats up enough to initiate the triple-alpha process, which produces carbon. However, the statement that its lifespan at this stage is 10 million years or 0.1% of its stay on the main sequence is incorrect. The red giant phase typically lasts for a few hundred million years, which is longer than 10 million years or 0.1% of the star's main sequence lifespan.Rate this question:
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- 31.
Near the end of the red giant phase, when such a star becomes unstable, it may eject shells of gas into space, forming a
- A.
New protostar
- B.
Planetary nebula
- C.
Ring
- D.
Series of planetesimals
- E.
Pulsar
Correct Answer
B. Planetary nebulaExplanation
During the red giant phase, a star expands and its outer layers become unstable. As a result, shells of gas are ejected into space. These ejected shells form a planetary nebula. A planetary nebula is a glowing shell of gas and dust that surrounds a dying star. It is formed when the star sheds its outer layers and exposes its hot core. The gas and dust in the planetary nebula are illuminated by the intense ultraviolet radiation from the exposed core, creating a beautiful and colorful display.Rate this question:
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- 32.
The pressure that keeps a white dwarf from collapsing further as it cools comes from
- A.
Degeneracy pressure of packing electrons too closely
- B.
Degeneracy pressure of packing neutrons too closely
- C.
The strong nuclear force
- D.
Hot, heavyweight molecules
- E.
The weak nuclear force
Correct Answer
A. Degeneracy pressure of packing electrons too closelyExplanation
The pressure that keeps a white dwarf from collapsing further as it cools comes from the degeneracy pressure of packing electrons too closely. This is because as a white dwarf cools, the electrons become tightly packed due to their quantum mechanical nature, creating a degeneracy pressure that counteracts the force of gravity. This pressure prevents further collapse of the white dwarf and maintains its stability.Rate this question:
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- 33.
A white dwarf contains approximately the mass of _____ within the volume of the Earth.
- A.
A supergiant star
- B.
The Moon
- C.
The Sun
- D.
Jupiter
- E.
The Earth
Correct Answer
C. The SunExplanation
A white dwarf contains approximately the mass of the Sun within the volume of the Earth. This means that the mass of the Sun is packed into a much smaller space, resulting in a high density. White dwarfs are the remnants of stars that have exhausted their nuclear fuel and collapsed under their own gravity. As a result, they are incredibly dense and have a mass comparable to that of the Sun, but occupy a much smaller volume.Rate this question:
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- 34.
The Chandrasekhar limit says that a white dwarf's mass cannot exceed _____ times the mass of the Sun, or the white dwarf will become too unstable to explode.
- A.
2.0
- B.
3.0
- C.
0.8
- D.
1.4
- E.
1.0
Correct Answer
D. 1.4Explanation
The Chandrasekhar limit states that a white dwarf's mass cannot exceed 1.4 times the mass of the Sun. If it surpasses this limit, the white dwarf becomes too unstable and will explode.Rate this question:
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- 35.
If, after a supernova, the stellar core is LESS THAN 2.5-3 solar masses, the result will probably be a
- A.
Black dwarf
- B.
White dwarf
- C.
Brown dwarf
- D.
Black hole
- E.
Neutron star
Correct Answer
E. Neutron starExplanation
After a supernova, if the stellar core is less than 2.5-3 solar masses, it will collapse under its own gravity and form a neutron star. Neutron stars are incredibly dense, compact objects composed mainly of neutrons. They are formed when the core of a massive star collapses, causing the protons and electrons to combine and form neutrons. Neutron stars have a strong gravitational pull and emit beams of radiation, making them detectable as pulsars.Rate this question:
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- 36.
In descending order--hottest to coolest--the spectral classes are
- A.
O G B A F K M
- B.
O A B G F K M
- C.
O B A G F M K
- D.
O B A F G K M
- E.
O A B F G M K
Correct Answer
D. O B A F G K MExplanation
The spectral classes of stars are a classification system based on their surface temperature. The classes range from hottest to coolest, with O being the hottest and M being the coolest. Therefore, the correct order is O B A F G K M.Rate this question:
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- 37.
Neutron stars pack the mass of the Sun (or greater) into an object that has a DIAMETER of about
- A.
3,400 km (Moon)
- B.
900 km (Ceres, the largest asteroid)
- C.
12,700 km (Earth)
- D.
10 km (half the length of Manhattan Island)
- E.
80 km (the width of New Jersey from the Delaware River to the shore in Atlantic City
Correct Answer
D. 10 km (half the length of Manhattan Island) -
- 38.
In a black hole, the radius of the event horizon is called the _____ radius.
- A.
Hawking
- B.
Hubble
- C.
Schwarzchild
- D.
Einstein
- E.
Doppler
Correct Answer
C. SchwarzchildExplanation
The correct answer is Schwarzchild. The radius of the event horizon in a black hole is referred to as the Schwarzchild radius. This term is named after Karl Schwarzchild, a German physicist who first derived the mathematical solution for the radius of a non-rotating black hole in Einstein's general theory of relativity. The Schwarzchild radius represents the point of no return, beyond which nothing, not even light, can escape the gravitational pull of the black hole.Rate this question:
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- 39.
Though no light espaces from a black hole, the existence of these objects can be inferred from X-Ray observations of hot gas surrounding them in _____ disks.
- A.
Hawking
- B.
Hubble
- C.
Depletion
- D.
Accretion
- E.
Dobsonian
Correct Answer
D. AccretionExplanation
The correct answer is "accretion". Accretion refers to the process by which matter, such as hot gas, accumulates and falls into a black hole. This matter emits X-rays as it gets heated up and compressed near the event horizon of the black hole. Therefore, by observing X-rays emitted from the hot gas surrounding a black hole, we can infer the existence of the black hole itself, even though no light can escape from it.Rate this question:
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- 40.
Supermassive black holes probably exist in
- A.
The Kuiper Belt
- B.
The centers of most galaxies and globular clusters
- C.
The halo of the Milky Way Galaxy
- D.
Solar systems around other stars
Correct Answer
B. The centers of most galaxies and globular clustersExplanation
Supermassive black holes are believed to exist in the centers of most galaxies and globular clusters. These black holes have masses that are millions or even billions of times greater than that of our Sun. They are thought to form from the collapse of massive stars or through the accretion of matter over time. The presence of supermassive black holes in the centers of galaxies is supported by various observations, such as the high velocities of stars and gas near the center, as well as the detection of powerful jets and radiation emitted from these regions.Rate this question:
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- 41.
As a red giant, a star will initiate hydrogen shell burning. Hydrogen shell burning proceeds at a higher rate than core hydrogen fusion did, resulting in the star becoming larger in radius and
- A.
Less variable
- B.
Less luminous
- C.
More luminous
- D.
More variable
Correct Answer
C. More luminousExplanation
As a star evolves into a red giant, it exhausts the hydrogen fuel in its core and starts hydrogen shell burning. During this process, the hydrogen fusion occurs in a shell surrounding the core, which leads to a higher rate of burning compared to core hydrogen fusion. This increased burning causes the star to expand in radius and become larger. As a result, more surface area is available for energy to be radiated, making the star more luminous.Rate this question:
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- 42.
Suppose you drop a clock toward a black hole. As you look at the clock from a high orbit, what will you notice?
- A.
The clock will fall toward the black hole at a steady rate, so that you'll see it plunge through the event horizon within just a few minutes
- B.
Time on the clock will run slower as it approaches the black hole, and light from the clock will be increasingly redshifted
- C.
Time on the clock will run faster as it approaches the black hole, and light from the clock will be increasingly blueshifted
- D.
The clock will fall faster and faster, reaching the speed of light as it crosses the event horizon.
Correct Answer
B. Time on the clock will run slower as it approaches the black hole, and light from the clock will be increasingly redshiftedExplanation
As the clock approaches the black hole, it experiences a stronger gravitational field. According to the theory of general relativity, time runs slower in stronger gravitational fields. This means that the clock will appear to tick slower as it gets closer to the black hole. Additionally, the light emitted by the clock will be stretched to longer wavelengths, causing it to be increasingly redshifted. This is due to the gravitational redshift effect, where the gravitational field of the black hole causes the light to lose energy and appear more red.Rate this question:
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- 43.
Which ONE of the following statements about black holes is NOT true?
- A.
If you fell into a black hole, you would experience time to be running normally as you plunged rapidly across the event horizon.
- B.
Although we are not 100% certain that black holes exist, we have strong observational evidence in favor of their existence
- C.
If you watch someone else fall into a black hole, you will never see him or her cross the event horizon. However, they will fade from view as the light they emit (or reflect) becomes more and more redshifted
- D.
A spaceship passing near a 10 solar mass black hole is much more likely to become destroyed than a spaceship passing at the same distance from the center of a 10 solar mass main-sequence star
Correct Answer
D. A spaceship passing near a 10 solar mass black hole is much more likely to become destroyed than a spaceship passing at the same distance from the center of a 10 solar mass main-sequence starExplanation
If a spaceship passes near a 10 solar mass black hole, it is not necessarily more likely to be destroyed compared to passing near a 10 solar mass main-sequence star. The gravitational pull of a black hole is extremely strong, but it depends on the proximity and trajectory of the spaceship. In some cases, a spaceship passing near a black hole may be able to escape its gravitational pull with the right velocity and trajectory. Therefore, the statement that a spaceship passing near a black hole is much more likely to be destroyed is not necessarily true.Rate this question:
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- 44.
Which statement about pulsars is NOT thought to be true?
- A.
Pulsars are kept from collapsing by neutron degeneracy pressure
- B.
Pulsars can form only in close binary systems
- C.
A pulsar must have a very strong magnetic field and rotate quite rapidly
- D.
All pulsars are neutron stars, but not all neutron stars are pulsars
Correct Answer
B. Pulsars can form only in close binary systemsExplanation
Pulsars can form in various ways, not just in close binary systems. Pulsars can also form from the remnants of supernova explosions, where the core of a massive star collapses and forms a neutron star. Therefore, the statement that "Pulsars can form only in close binary systems" is not thought to be true.Rate this question:
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- 45.
Stars like the Sun have two internal zones that transport energy from the core to the surface. Name these two zones
- A.
Convection and photospheric
- B.
Convection and radiation
- C.
Photospheric and radiation
- D.
Mesospheric and ionospheric
Correct Answer
B. Convection and radiationExplanation
Stars like the Sun have two internal zones that transport energy from the core to the surface. The first zone is convection, where energy is transferred through the movement of hot gas or plasma. The second zone is radiation, where energy is transported through electromagnetic waves.Rate this question:
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- 46.
White dwarfs are dense, hot, inert cores of low-mass stars made primarily of the element carbon, which requires a temperature of _____ to begin fusion. Low-mass stars do not have enough mass to reach such a high temperature
- A.
100 million K
- B.
300 million K
- C.
600 million K
- D.
900 million K
Correct Answer
C. 600 million KExplanation
Low-mass stars do not have enough mass to reach the high temperature of 600 million K required for carbon fusion. This fusion process is necessary for a star to become a white dwarf.Rate this question:
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- 47.
The more massive a white dwarf, the
- A.
Larger is its radius
- B.
Higher is its luminosity
- C.
Smaller is its radius
- D.
Lower is its luminosity
Correct Answer
C. Smaller is its radiusExplanation
As a white dwarf becomes more massive, the gravitational force increases, causing the star to compress and become denser. This compression leads to a smaller radius because the mass is concentrated in a smaller volume. Therefore, the correct answer is "smaller is its radius."Rate this question:
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- 48.
An isolated brown dwarf will
- A.
Become a white dwarf
- B.
Become a neutron star
- C.
Become a main-sequence star
- D.
Remain a brown dwarf forever
Correct Answer
D. Remain a brown dwarf foreverExplanation
An isolated brown dwarf will remain a brown dwarf forever because it does not have enough mass to sustain nuclear fusion in its core. Brown dwarfs are "failed stars" that are too small to ignite and sustain the fusion reactions that power main-sequence stars. As a result, they cool and fade over time, but they do not undergo any significant transformation or evolve into other types of stars or stellar remnants like white dwarfs or neutron stars. Therefore, the correct answer is that an isolated brown dwarf will remain a brown dwarf forever.Rate this question:
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- 49.
A star's position on the main sequence is fixed by one, fundamental property--the star's.
- A.
Color
- B.
Diameter
- C.
Mass
- D.
Age
Correct Answer
C. MassExplanation
The position of a star on the main sequence is determined by its mass. The mass of a star determines its internal pressure and temperature, which in turn governs the balance between gravitational forces and nuclear fusion reactions in its core. Stars with higher masses have stronger gravitational forces, higher temperatures, and more intense fusion reactions, causing them to be brighter and bluer. On the other hand, stars with lower masses have weaker gravitational forces, lower temperatures, and less intense fusion reactions, making them dimmer and redder. Therefore, the mass of a star is the fundamental property that fixes its position on the main sequence.Rate this question:
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- 50.
Degeneracy pressure prevents objects with masses below about _____ from becoming true stars.
- A.
0.28 Msun
- B.
0.08 Msun
- C.
0.18 Msun
- D.
0.80 Msun
Correct Answer
B. 0.08 MsunExplanation
Degeneracy pressure is a quantum mechanical effect that occurs when electrons are compressed to high densities. It is responsible for supporting the mass of a star against gravitational collapse. Objects with masses below about 0.08 Msun do not have enough mass to generate the necessary pressure to initiate nuclear fusion and sustain a stable star. Therefore, degeneracy pressure prevents objects with masses below 0.08 Msun from becoming true stars.Rate this question:
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Mar 21, 2023Quiz Edited by
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