Which of these observations would NOT be an indication of a binary star system?
A) The "star" appears to move in a straight line against a background field of stars.
B) A "star" appears to become periodically dimmer and then brighter for a few hours at a time.
C) A "star" image periodically separates into two distinct images and then blends again.
D) The "star" appears to wiggle in its path across Earth's sky against the background stars.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Observation A, where a "star" appears to move in a straight line against a background field of stars, would not indicate a binary star system. This movement is more indicative of proper motion of a single star rather than the gravitational interactions seen in binary systems. Binary systems often show periodic dimming (due to eclipses), separation into two distinct images (when the binary nature is resolved), or a wiggle in the path (due to the gravitational influence of the companion star), as described in options B, C, and D.

Which of These Observations Would NOT Be an Indication of a Binary