Unit 6- Astronomical Hierarchy

Front

What is luminosity in astronomy?

Back

Luminosity is the total amount of energy emitted by a star per unit of time, often measured in watts.

Front

How can astronomers determine the luminosity of a star?

Back

By observing the star's apparent magnitude and distance from Earth.

Front

What is the hierarchical relationship between a planet and a galaxy?

Back

A planet is part of a solar system, which is part of a galaxy.

Front

What is an Astronomical Unit (AU)?

Back

An AU is the distance from the Earth to the Sun, used to measure distances within our solar system.

Front

What is a light year?

Back

A light year is the distance that light travels in one year, used to measure distances outside our solar system.

Front

What color are the hottest stars?

Back

Blue stars are the hottest.

Front

What is the significance of a star's apparent magnitude?

Back

It measures how bright a star appears from Earth, which can differ from its actual luminosity.

Front

What is a solar system?

Back

A solar system consists of a star and all the celestial bodies that are bound to it by gravity, including planets, moons, asteroids, and comets.

Front

What is the Milky Way?

Back

The Milky Way is the galaxy that contains our solar system, composed of billions of stars.

Front

What is the difference between a planet and a star?

Back

A planet orbits a star and does not produce its own light, while a star generates light and heat through nuclear fusion.