The Star Algol in the Constellation Perseus Has These Unusual

question 232

Multiple Choice

The star Algol in the constellation Perseus has these unusual characteristics. Every 68.75 hours its brightness dims suddenly from apparent magnitude 2.3 to apparent magnitude 3.5 and remains there for a few hours before returning just as suddenly to 2.3. In addition, halfway through this 68.75-hour period, the apparent magnitude becomes slightly dimmer than 2.3 for a few hours and then returns to 2.3. From this information alone it is possible to classify Algol as a(n)

• A) optical double.
• B) eclipsing binary.
• C) totally eclipsing binary.
• D) partially eclipsing binary.

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Definitions:

Epicardium

The outermost layer of the heart wall, consisting of an inner visceral layer of the pericardium that protects and lubricates the heart.

Venous Cavity

A space within the body where deoxygenated blood is collected from the venous system before being returned to the heart.

Coronary Sinus

A large vein on the posterior of the heart that collects blood from the heart muscle (myocardium) and returns it to the right atrium.

Cardiac Vein

Blood vessels that drain deoxygenated blood from the myocardium (heart muscle) into the right atrium of the heart, playing a crucial role in the circulatory system.