Radial velocity/magnitude/luminosity

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In summary, radial velocity is the measurement of an object's speed towards or away from an observer, typically measured using the Doppler effect. It is used in astronomy to study celestial objects, determine the presence of planets, and study the motion of stars and galaxy clusters. Radial velocity and magnitude are related, but while radial velocity measures speed, magnitude measures brightness. Radial velocity does not directly affect a star's luminosity, but can provide information about its mass and distance. It can also be used to measure the expansion of the universe by studying the radial velocities of distant galaxies.
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Homework Statement


The spectrum of a quasar with a redshift of 0.20 contains two sets of absorption lines, redshifted by 0.15 and 0.155, respectively. If h0 = 70 km/s/Mpc, estimate the distance between the intervening galaxies responsible for the two sets of lines.

Homework Equations


H0= 70 km/s/Mpc
 
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Cool. So, where might you start? What does the redshift tell you? What equation involves the redshift?
 

1. What is radial velocity?

Radial velocity is the measurement of the speed at which an object is moving towards or away from an observer. It is typically measured using the Doppler effect, which causes a shift in the wavelength of light emitted by an object depending on its movement.

2. How is radial velocity used in astronomy?

Radial velocity is an important tool in the study of celestial objects. It can be used to determine the presence of planets around a star, as well as their mass and distance from the star. It can also be used to study the motion of stars in a galaxy and the structure of galaxy clusters.

3. What is the relationship between radial velocity and magnitude?

Radial velocity and magnitude are related in that they both provide information about an object's location and movement in space. However, radial velocity is a measure of an object's speed, while magnitude is a measure of its brightness as seen from Earth.

4. How does radial velocity affect a star's luminosity?

Radial velocity does not directly affect a star's luminosity. However, it can provide information about a star's mass and distance, which are both factors that can affect its luminosity. Higher radial velocities can indicate a more massive star or a closer distance, both of which can result in a brighter luminosity.

5. Can radial velocity be used to measure the expansion of the universe?

Yes, radial velocity can be used to study the expansion of the universe. By measuring the radial velocities of distant galaxies, scientists can determine their distance and speed of movement. This information can be used to calculate the rate of expansion of the universe and better understand its evolution.

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