Calculating distance to a star using magnitudes

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the distance to a star using its magnitudes, specifically employing the equation ##M_{abs}=m_{obs}-5log_{10}(\frac{d}{10})##. The user attempts to determine the absolute magnitude of Star A, assuming it is equivalent to Vega's absolute V-band magnitude of ##M_{abs}=+0.6##. However, the user encounters a challenge due to the unknown observed magnitude ##m_{obs}##, which is essential for computing the distance. The discussion highlights the necessity of obtaining the R-band magnitude of Vega to proceed with the calculations.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of absolute and apparent magnitudes in astronomy
  • Familiarity with the logarithmic scale in magnitude calculations
  • Knowledge of V-band and R-band magnitudes
  • Basic grasp of stellar classification, specifically A0 stars
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  • Research the relationship between R-band and V-band magnitudes
  • Learn how to calculate distance to stars using the distance modulus formula
  • Explore the properties of A0 stars and their absolute magnitudes
  • Investigate methods for determining observed magnitudes in stellar observations
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Astronomy students, astrophysics researchers, and anyone interested in stellar distance calculations and photometric measurements.

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Homework Statement


Obs.JPG


Homework Equations


##m = m_0 − 2.5 log_{10} f## where ##m## is the absolute magnitude of an object, and ##m_0## is the zero point.

The Attempt at a Solution



I'm having difficulty with is part b, the answer to which I believe is required for the subsequent parts.

I obtain the following through treatment of the given equation: ##M_{abs}=m_{obs}-5log_5(\frac{d}{10})## where ##d## is the distance we're looking to compute. Using the fact that both Star A and Vega are A0 stars, I assumed that the absolute V-band magnitude of Star A would be the same as Vega's, which would be ##M_{abs}=+0.6##, however the observed/apparent magnitude ##m_{obs}## remains unknown, and so I'm unable to proceed to compute the distance.

It seems simple, but I can't quite put my finger on it..
 
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You'll need the R-band magnitude of Vega I think. The question part about the colors indicates that you have to find some relation between R and V band.
Afterwards you can use the R band magnitude from (a).
 

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