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Chapter 19: Problem 47

The larger star in the Algol binary system (see Figure 19-21a) is of spectral class \(\mathrm{K}\), while the smaller star is of spectral class B. Discuss how the color of Algol changes as seen through a small telescope (through which Algol appears as a single star). What is the color during a deep eclipse, when the large star eclipses the small one? What is the color when the small star eclipses the large one?

Short Answer

Expert verified
The color of Algol changes from white or light purple to orange or red during a deep eclipse when the large star eclipses the small one, and appears more blue or white when the small star eclipses the large one.

Step by step solution

01

Determine the color of the stars

To begin with, determine the colors of stars of different spectral classes. Stars of spectral class K are cooler and would therefore appear red or orange. Stars of spectral class B are hotter and would therefore appear blue or white. In the Algol binary system, the larger star is of spectral class \(\mathrm{K}\) and hence it is red or orange while the smaller star is of spectral class B and hence it is blue or white.
02

Discuss the color of Algol in normal state

In a normal state where there is no eclipse, the light from both the stars combine. Therefore, considering the colors of both stars, the color of Algol as seen through a small telescope in a normal state would be a blend of orange and blue, which would be a sort of white or light purple.
03

Discuss the color of Algol during a deep eclipse by the larger star

During a deep eclipse when the larger (K-type, orange or red) star eclipses the smaller (B-type, blue or white) one, the light from the smaller star is blocked. Therefore, the color of Algol as seen through a small telescope during a deep eclipse when the large star eclipses the small one would be predominantly orange or red.
04

Discuss the color of Algol during an eclipse by the smaller star

When the smaller (B-type, blue or white) star eclipses the larger (K-type, orange or red) one, the light from the larger star is partially blocked. Therefore, the color of Algol as seen through a small telescope when the small star eclipses the large one would be a balance between the two colors, but would appear more blue or white due to the increased presence of the B-type star's light.

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