Chapter 33, Problem 18Q

To determine

(a) To determine:

The distances of galaxies and how the type Ia supernova is used.

Answer to Problem 18Q

Solution:

Type Ia supernovae all have a similar origin and their brief explosive burst of light is expected to be of nearly the same luminosity. This makes them very useful in determining the distances of galaxies.

Explanation of Solution

A supernova type is present in a binary system. Here, one star is considered as a white dwarf and another star can be a white dwarf or agiant star. Here, these two stars will be orbiting one another.

To determine

(b) To determine:

Actually how the distances of galaxies is measured using type I a supernova.

Answer to Problem 18Q

Solution:

The distance is measured by comparing the apparent brightness of two Ia supernovae. If we know the distance of the galaxy of one supernova, we can determine the distance of the galaxy of another supernova through this method.

Explanation of Solution

A supernova type is present in a binary system. Here one star is considered as a white dwarf and another star can be a white dwarf or agiant star. Here these two stars will be orbiting one another.