The amplitude of the radial velocity curve showing the motion of a star with a planet orbitingit shows the period of the planet's orbit (the planet's year).

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The amplitude of the radial velocity curve indicates the velocity of the star as it moves towards or away from us due to the gravitational influence of the planet, not the period of the planet's orbit. The period of the planet's orbit is determined by the time it takes for the curve to repeat its pattern.

The Amplitude of the Radial Velocity Curve Showing the Motion