The amount of diffraction and thus the resolution of the telescope depends upon
A) the design of the telescope.
B) the wavelength used and the size of the main telescope objective lens or mirror.
C) the size and sensitivity of the CCD chip used for imaging.
D) the brightness of the object.
E) whether the telescope is a reflector or refractor.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The resolution of a telescope, and the amount of diffraction it experiences, primarily depends on the wavelength of light being observed and the diameter of the telescope's main objective lens or mirror. This relationship is described by the diffraction limit, which is determined by these two factors.

The Amount of Diffraction and Thus the Resolution of the Telescope