In which wavelength region(s)would we need to carry out observations in order to study the accretion disk around a white dwarf in a binary system?
A)visible light
B)ultraviolet light
C)X- ray light
D)A and B
E)B and C

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

In a binary system with a white dwarf, the gravitational pull from the white dwarf causes the companion star to shed material onto the white dwarf's surface, forming an accretion disk. The disk heats up due to friction and emits radiation at high energies, mainly in the ultraviolet and X-ray regions. Therefore, observations in these wavelength regions (choices B and C) would be necessary to study the accretion disk. The visible light region (choice A) may not provide enough information about the high-energy processes occurring in the disk. Choice D is incorrect because visible light alone may not be sufficient, and X-rays can penetrate the Earth's atmosphere, making it more difficult to obtain observations from the ground.

In Which Wavelength Region(s)would We Need to Carry Out Observations