What is the difference in magnitude between two stars with varying distances?

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the difference in apparent and absolute magnitudes between two stars, where one star is intrinsically 100 times brighter than the other and is located twice as far away. The relevant equation used is m_2 - m_1 = 2.5 log(b_1/b_2), which relates apparent brightness to apparent magnitude. The user seeks clarification on applying the equation in a reverse scenario, where distances are known but magnitudes need to be determined.

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Homework Statement


One star is intrinsically 100 times brighter than the other. If the brighter star is twice as far away as the dimmer star, what is the difference in their m values and their M values.



Homework Equations


None were given.



The Attempt at a Solution


The equation I've been using most frequently in this problem set is M + m = 5 - 5logd, but I'm not really sure how or even if I can apply it here, since this problem is reverse of what I've been given so far. Usually I have magnitudes and am asked to find the distance.

Any help you can offer will be greatly appreciated. :smile:
 
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The difference in magnitude between two stars given their brightness is thus:

[tex]m_2-m_1=2.5 \log(\frac{b_1}{b_2})[/tex]

This relates to apparent brightness and apparent magnitude.
 
Thanks for your help!
 

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