Apparent Magnitude of Binary Star System

In summary, the Apparent Magnitude Problem is a discrepancy in the brightness of stars as seen from Earth due to differences in distance. It can make it difficult to accurately measure the true brightness of stars and can impact our understanding of their properties and distances. Apparent magnitude measures how bright a star appears from Earth while absolute magnitude takes into account the actual brightness at a standard distance. Scientists use various methods to correct for this problem in their research, but it cannot be completely eliminated.
  • #1
Gammage
14
0
I am having trouble understanding this problem. It has several parts describing a binary star system. The last part ask for the apparent magnitude of the combined light from both stars, if they were viewed as a single point. I guess my first thought was to add them, but I'm worried because apparent magnitude is a logarithmic scale. Am I overthinking this one?

Thanks
 
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  • #2
Hi Gammage! :smile:

Yes, you're right to worry …

brightness is additive, but magnitude isn't. :wink:
 

1. What is the Apparent Magnitude Problem?

The Apparent Magnitude Problem is a discrepancy in the brightness of stars as seen from Earth. It is caused by the differences in distance between stars and Earth, making some stars appear brighter or dimmer than others.

2. How does the Apparent Magnitude Problem affect our understanding of the stars?

The Apparent Magnitude Problem can make it difficult to accurately measure the true brightness of stars. This can impact our understanding of the characteristics and properties of stars, as well as their distances from Earth.

3. What is the difference between apparent magnitude and absolute magnitude?

Apparent magnitude is a measure of how bright a star appears from Earth, while absolute magnitude is a measure of how bright a star would appear if it were at a standard distance of 10 parsecs (32.6 light years) from Earth. Absolute magnitude takes into account the actual brightness of a star, whereas apparent magnitude is affected by the distance from Earth.

4. How do scientists account for the Apparent Magnitude Problem in their research?

Scientists use various methods to correct for the Apparent Magnitude Problem in their research. This may include using standard distance measures or applying mathematical corrections to the observed brightness of stars.

5. Can the Apparent Magnitude Problem be completely eliminated?

No, the Apparent Magnitude Problem cannot be completely eliminated as it is a natural phenomenon caused by the distances between stars and Earth. However, advancements in technology and measurement techniques have helped to reduce its impact on scientific research and understanding of the stars.

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