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Chapter 6: Problem 28

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

Short Answer

Expert verified
Astronomers must use satellites and Earth-orbiting observatories to study the heavens at X-ray and gamma-ray wavelengths because the Earth's atmosphere is opaque to these wavelengths. This means it absorbs these high-energy wavelengths before they can reach traditional ground-based telescopes. With instruments in space that can read these wavelengths, astronomers gain vital insight into high-energy celestial phenomena.

Step by step solution

01

Understand the Problem

Astronomy relies on the detection of different types of light, or electromagnetic radiation, to study celestial objects. Some of this radiation cannot pass through the Earth's atmosphere, which leads us to the necessity of using space-based observatories for certain wavelengths.
02

Explain Absorption of X-ray and Gamma-ray Wavelengths

The Earth's atmosphere is opaque to X-rays and gamma rays, meaning it absorbs these high-energy wavelengths from space. This prevents these wavelengths from reaching ground-based telescopes. Astronomers, therefore, cannot obtain X-ray and gamma-ray data about celestial bodies from Earth's surface.
03

Discuss the Need for Space-Based Observatories

Since these X-rays and gamma rays can't penetrate the Earth's atmosphere, astronomers must send instruments into space. With satellites and Earth-orbiting observatories equipped to read these wavelengths, astronomers can study objects such as black holes, neutron stars, and superheated gas clouds, which emit high-energy radiation.
04

Conclude the Explanation

In summary, X-ray and gamma-ray wavelengths provide essential information about the universe, but they can only be detected in space due to the absorption properties of the Earth's atmosphere. Hence the need for astronomers to use satellites and Earth-orbiting observatories. This knowledge allows a greater understanding of the high-energy universe.

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Most popular questions from this chapter

Explain why a flat piece of glass does not bring light to a focus while a curved piece of glass can.

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