Chapter 2: Problem 21

Why must astronomers use satellites and Earth-orbiting observatories to study the heavens at X-ray and gamma-ray wavelengths?

Short Answer

Expert verified

Answer: Astronomers use satellites and Earth-orbiting observatories to study X-ray and gamma-ray wavelengths because Earth's atmosphere absorbs these high-energy wavelengths, preventing them from reaching ground-based observatories. By positioning satellites and observatories in space, astronomers can directly capture and analyze these wavelengths without atmospheric interference. This helps in gathering valuable insights into the energetic processes in the universe and understanding astrophysical phenomena.

Step by step solution

Understand the Earth's atmosphere's role in blocking X-ray and gamma-ray wavelengths

The Earth's atmosphere absorbs X-ray and gamma-ray wavelengths, preventing them from reaching ground-based observatories. The atmosphere acts as a shield, protecting living beings on Earth from the harmful effects of high-energy radiation. However, this shielding effect also makes it impossible to study these wavelengths effectively using telescopes and observatories on Earth's surface.

Explain the need for satellites and Earth-orbiting observatories

To study X-ray and gamma-ray wavelengths, astronomers must bypass the Earth's atmosphere. Satellites and Earth-orbiting observatories are placed into space, allowing them to directly capture and analyze these high-energy wavelengths without atmospheric interference.

Describe the equipment used for studying X-ray and gamma-ray wavelengths

Specialized equipment and telescopes are necessary for observing X-ray and gamma-ray wavelengths. They are designed to detect high-energy photons and convert them into readable data. Some notable examples include the Chandra X-ray Observatory, the Swift Gamma-Ray Burst Mission, and the Fermi Gamma-ray Space Telescope. These orbiting observatories help astronomers study celestial phenomena such as black holes, supernovae, and gamma-ray bursts.

Explain the importance of studying X-ray and gamma-ray wavelengths

Studying X-ray and gamma-ray wavelengths provides astronomers valuable insights into the most energetic processes in the universe. Observations in these high-energy ranges can reveal information about the formation and evolution of stars, galaxies, and the structure of the universe. Studying these wavelengths allows for a better understanding of astrophysical phenomena and helps further develop human knowledge in astronomy and cosmology.

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Why must astronomers use satellites and Earth-orbiting observatories to study the heavens at X-ray and gamma-ray wavelengths?

Short Answer

Step by step solution

Understand the Earth's atmosphere's role in blocking X-ray and gamma-ray wavelengths

Explain the need for satellites and Earth-orbiting observatories

Describe the equipment used for studying X-ray and gamma-ray wavelengths

Explain the importance of studying X-ray and gamma-ray wavelengths

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