Minimum distance between stars so we see them as two distinct stars

In summary, the minimum distance between stars so we see them as two distinct stars can vary depending on factors such as brightness, atmospheric conditions, and telescope power. On average, the minimum distance is 4.22 light-years or 25 trillion miles. If two stars are closer than this distance, they will appear as a single point of light due to limitations of our eyes and telescopes. The minimum distance between stars is significant in understanding the vastness of the universe and is determined by various methods such as parallax measurements and spectroscopy. However, it is not constant and can vary greatly for different stars.
  • #1
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Homework Statement



Using a telescope with circular aperture of diameter 2.5 meters and wavelength 463 nm. The stars are 10E22 meters away from us. What does the distance between them have to be so we view them as two stars?

Homework Equations



angle = 1.22 x (wavelength/diameter) > Distance between them = 10E22 x angle

The Attempt at a Solution



Plugged in the values given into the equations above and I'm not getting the right answer.
 
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  • #2
You should get the right answer. Can you show us the calculation?
 
  • #3
Yep.

(1.22 x 463 E-9)/2.5 = 2.259...E-7

That's my angle q.

Then I do q x 10E22 > 2.259 E 16 meters
 

1. What is the minimum distance between stars so we see them as two distinct stars?

The minimum distance between stars so we see them as two distinct stars depends on various factors such as the brightness of each star, atmospheric conditions, and the power of the telescope used. However, on average, the minimum distance is about 4.22 light-years or 25 trillion miles.

2. Can we see two stars as distinct if they are closer than the minimum distance?

No, if two stars are closer than the minimum distance, they will appear as a single point of light. This is because our eyes and telescopes are not powerful enough to distinguish them as separate objects at such short distances.

3. What is the significance of the minimum distance between stars?

The minimum distance between stars is important because it helps us understand the vastness of our universe. It also plays a crucial role in astronomical calculations and observations.

4. How do scientists determine the minimum distance between stars?

Scientists use various methods such as parallax measurements, spectroscopy, and stellar parallax to determine the minimum distance between stars. These techniques involve measuring the angle between the stars, analyzing their light spectra, and studying their movements and positions relative to Earth.

5. Is the minimum distance between stars constant?

No, the minimum distance between stars is not constant and can vary greatly depending on the specific stars and their distances from Earth. Some stars may appear as distinct objects even if they are closer than the average minimum distance, while others may require a larger distance to be seen as separate stars.

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