The material that accretes onto a neutron star or black hole is expected to emit X-rays because

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

As material accretes onto a neutron star or black hole, it releases energy in the form of heat. The material becomes extremely hot, reaching temperatures of millions of degrees, and this heat causes the material to radiate most strongly at X-ray wavelengths. Therefore, the emission of X-rays from material accretion is due to thermal energy, making choice C the correct answer. Choices A and B are incorrect because they involve entirely different mechanisms for producing radiation. Choice D is also incorrect because the conversion of energy described does not involve the production of X-rays. As the accreted material falls onto the neutron star or black hole, it gains kinetic energy and increases in temperature due to frictional heating. This hot material will emit most strongly in the X-ray wavelengths.

The Material That Accretes onto a Neutron Star or Black