Is light from an asteroid visible to the naked eye?

In summary, "Light from an asteroid" is the visible light reflected from the sun by an asteroid, which can provide valuable information about its composition and physical properties. Unlike other celestial bodies, the light from an asteroid is not emitted but reflected. It can sometimes be seen with the naked eye, but telescopes are often needed. By studying this light, scientists can learn about the asteroid's composition, surface features, and formation.
  • #1
cooltu
7
0
Homework Statement
The peak black body temperature from an asteroid is in the infrared . Why are they usually observed in the visible ?
a) because the majority of the light from an asteroid is reflected sunlight.
b) because the majority of the light from an asteroid is reflected sunlight
c) because the majority of the light from an asteroid is absorbed sunlight.
d) none of these
Relevant Equations
practical
d)NONE OF THESE
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
cooltu said:
a) because the majority of the light from an asteroid is reflected sunlight.
b) because the majority of the light from an asteroid is reflected sunlight
:wideeyed:

cooltu said:
d)NONE OF THESE
Then what would be the correct answer?
 
  • Haha
Likes berkeman
  • #3
withdrawing my previous answer. I guess it would be (A )because we can see it when the asteroid reflects the sunlight
 
  • #4
cooltu said:
withdrawing my previous answer. I guess it would be (A )because we can see it when the asteroid reflects the sunlight
That makes more sense. But still, but a and b are the same answer.
 
  • #5
Thanks a lot
 

1. Is light from an asteroid visible to the naked eye?

Yes, in some cases, light from an asteroid can be visible to the naked eye. This typically occurs when an asteroid is large and close enough to Earth, and when it reflects enough sunlight to be seen as a faint point of light in the night sky.

2. How bright can an asteroid appear to the naked eye?

The brightness of an asteroid can vary greatly depending on its size, distance from Earth, and reflective properties. Some asteroids can appear as bright as a star, while others may be too faint to be seen without a telescope.

3. Can an asteroid ever appear as a streak of light in the sky?

Yes, if an asteroid enters Earth's atmosphere and burns up, it can create a streak of light known as a meteor or shooting star. However, this is a rare occurrence and not all asteroids will produce this effect.

4. Are there any specific times or locations where an asteroid may be visible to the naked eye?

There is no specific time or location for when an asteroid may be visible to the naked eye. It depends on the orbit and trajectory of the asteroid, and whether it is passing close enough to Earth to be seen.

5. Can an asteroid ever be mistaken for a UFO?

It is possible for an asteroid to be mistaken for a UFO, especially if it appears as a bright, moving light in the sky. However, with the advancement of technology and tracking systems, it is becoming less common for asteroids to be mistaken for UFOs.

Similar threads

  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
10
Replies
335
Views
8K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
10
Views
2K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
5
Views
1K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
2
Views
939
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
13
Views
1K
  • Astronomy and Astrophysics
Replies
18
Views
1K
  • Astronomy and Astrophysics
Replies
15
Views
2K
Replies
13
Views
2K
  • Astronomy and Astrophysics
Replies
1
Views
1K
Replies
13
Views
1K
Back
Top