Radio telescopes have poor resolving power because
A) their diameters are so large.
B) the energy they receive is not electromagnetic radiation.
C) radio waves have long wavelengths.
D) a and b
E) none of the above

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Radio waves have long wavelengths, which limits the ability of radio telescopes to distinguish fine details and results in poor resolving power. The diameter of the telescope is not the main factor affecting resolving power in this case. The energy received by radio telescopes is indeed electromagnetic radiation, contradicting choice B. Therefore, C is the best and only choice. Radio waves have long wavelengths and therefore require a large diameter in order to achieve good resolving power. This is why radio telescopes have poor resolving power compared to optical telescopes.

Radio Telescopes Have Poor Resolving Power Because