Is a Galaxy Unresolved at 10 Arc Seconds with 15 Arc Second Resolution?

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In summary, unresolved galaxies are galaxies that cannot be easily distinguished from a single point of light. This is due to their distance and size, making it difficult to observe individual stars and structures within the galaxy. Scientists use imaging techniques and additional measurements to determine if a galaxy is unresolved. It is important to know if a galaxy is unresolved because it can provide valuable information about the distant universe and help in understanding the evolution of galaxies, as well as the properties of dark matter and dark energy. While unresolved galaxies can potentially be resolved with advances in technology, some may always remain unresolved due to their extreme distance. Resolved galaxies can be observed in more detail, allowing for a deeper understanding of their individual components and properties, while unresolved galaxies provide less information but
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Airsteve0
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This question may be quite trivial but I was wondering if you were observing a galaxy that was say 10 arc seconds in diameter with a telescope whose diffraction limited resolution was 15 arc seconds would the galaxy appear completely unresolved or just "blurry".
 
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That depends on what you mean by "unresolved". The light would appear, but it would be very blurry to the point that you wouldn't be able to see any detail, just a fuzzy spot.
 

FAQ: Is a Galaxy Unresolved at 10 Arc Seconds with 15 Arc Second Resolution?

1. What does it mean for a galaxy to be unresolved?

Unresolved galaxies refer to galaxies that cannot be easily distinguished from a single point of light due to their distance and size. This makes it difficult to observe individual stars and structures within the galaxy.

2. How do scientists determine if a galaxy is unresolved?

Scientists use imaging techniques such as high-resolution telescopes to observe galaxies. If the image of the galaxy appears as a single point of light, it is considered unresolved. Additional measurements, such as the galaxy's brightness and distance, may also be taken into consideration.

3. Why is it important to know if a galaxy is unresolved?

Identifying unresolved galaxies can provide valuable information about the distant universe. These galaxies can help us understand the evolution of galaxies and the structure of the universe. They also serve as important tools for studying the properties of dark matter and dark energy.

4. Can unresolved galaxies ever be resolved?

With advances in technology and the development of more powerful telescopes, it is possible for unresolved galaxies to be resolved. However, the distance and size of the galaxy play a crucial role in determining if it can be resolved. Some galaxies may always remain unresolved due to their extreme distance.

5. How do unresolved galaxies differ from resolved galaxies?

Resolved galaxies can be observed in more detail, allowing scientists to study their individual stars, structures, and properties. Unresolved galaxies, on the other hand, appear as a single point of light and provide less information. However, unresolved galaxies can still provide valuable insights into the distant universe and contribute to our understanding of its structure and evolution.

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