How is it possible to measure the distance to stars and galaxies?

How is it possible to measure the distance to stars and galaxies?

Assessment

Interactive Video

Physics, Science

University

Hard

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The video tutorial explains how scientists measure distances in space using various methods. The parallax method is the most accurate for stars within 400 light-years, using Earth's orbit and trigonometry. For stars beyond this range, scientists use brightness patterns of main sequence stars. Cepheid variables help measure distances to other galaxies, while type 1a supernovae are used for even greater distances, up to 13.2 billion light-years. The video highlights the challenges of measuring vast distances and the ingenuity of scientists in developing these methods.

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3 questions

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1.

OPEN ENDED QUESTION

3 mins • 1 pt

Discuss the limitations of the parallax method when measuring distances in space.

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2.

OPEN ENDED QUESTION

3 mins • 1 pt

What challenges do scientists face when measuring distances to galaxies billions of light-years away?

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3.

OPEN ENDED QUESTION

3 mins • 1 pt

What is a type 1a supernova and how is it used to measure astronomical distances?

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