In eclipsing binaries, in contrast to spectroscopic binaries, we can also determine a star's:
A)temperature.
B)color.
C)speed.
D)shape.
E)radius.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

In eclipsing binaries, we can observe changes in the brightness of the binary system as one star passes in front of the other. By measuring these changes, we can determine the relative sizes of the stars and therefore their radii. In eclipsing binaries, we can observe the periodic changes in the star's brightness as the two stars eclipse each other. By modeling these changes in brightness, we can determine the size, or radius, of each star. Thus, we can determine a star's radius in addition to any other information that can be obtained from spectroscopic binaries.

In Eclipsing Binaries, in Contrast to Spectroscopic Binaries, We Can