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Chapter 1: Problem 86

For measurement of astronomical distance ............. is used. (a) vernier callipers (b) spherometer (c) screw gauge (d) indirect method

Short Answer

Expert verified
The correct method used for measuring astronomical distances is (d) indirect method. This is because indirect methods, such as parallax, standard candles, and redshift, are capable of estimating the vast distances between celestial objects, unlike vernier callipers, spherometers, and screw gauges, which are designed for small-scale measurements.

Step by step solution

01

Understanding astronomical distances

Astronomical distances refer to the vast distances between celestial objects, such as stars, planets, and galaxies. These distances are typically measured in units like kilometers, miles, astronomical units (AU), light-years, or parsecs.
02

Option (a): Vernier callipers

Vernier callipers are a precision instrument used to measure distances between two points on a small scale, usually in millimeters or inches. They have two scales: the main scale and the vernier scale which allow for precise measurements. However, they are not suitable for measuring astronomical distances because they are designed for small-scale measurements and cannot measure the enormous distances between celestial objects.
03

Option (b): Spherometer

A spherometer is an instrument used to measure the curvature of a spherical surface, such as a lens or a mirror, by measuring the differences in height from the surface to a reference plane. It consists of a circular base and a central vertical screw with four or three legs that make contact with the surface. Like vernier callipers, spherometers are not suitable for measuring astronomical distances, as they are designed to measure the curvature of surfaces, not large distances between celestial objects.
04

Option (c): Screw gauge

A screw gauge, also known as a micrometer, is a precision instrument for measuring small distances, typically from a few millimeters to a centimeter, with an accuracy of about 0.001 millimeters or better. It consists of a U-shaped frame and a spindle that moves forward or backward through a threaded hole when the user rotates a thimble connected to the spindle. Similar to vernier callipers, screw gauges are not suitable for measuring astronomical distances because they are designed for small-scale measurements.
05

Option (d): Indirect methods

Indirect methods are techniques that astronomers use to estimate astronomical distances without directly measuring them. Some examples of indirect methods include parallax, standard candles, and redshift. These methods often involve observing the properties, positions, or motions of celestial objects and using mathematical relationships or models to infer their distances. Indirect methods are indeed suitable for measuring astronomical distances as they can handle the enormously large distances involved. Based on the given options and their appropriateness for measuring astronomical distances, the correct answer is: (d) indirect method

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