Absorption Lines in the Spectra of Some Binary Stars Are

question 149

Multiple Choice

Absorption lines in the spectra of some binary stars are seen to change periodically from single to double lines and back again. Explain.

• A) The effect of the gravitational field of one star on the atoms of the second star periodically produces spectral line shifts.
• B) The magnetic field of one star produces Zeeman periodic splitting of spectral lines in atoms of the second star.
• C) Oscillations on the surfaces of the stars lead to Doppler-shifted lines.
• D) Motion toward and away from Earth during their orbital motion results in Doppler shift of light from these stars at times and no shift when the stars are moving perpendicular to the line of sight.

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Definitions:

Law of Diminishing Returns

A principle stating that if one factor of production is increased while others remain constant, the overall returns will eventually decrease after a certain point.

Marginal Cost Curves

Graphs that show how the cost of producing one additional unit changes as the production volume increases.

Variable Costs

Costs that change in proportion to the level of output or activity, such as raw materials, labor, and utilities.

Output

The quantity of goods or services produced by a business, industry, or country.