A planet is detected via the Doppler technique.The velocity change of the star is a measure of
A)the planet's size and density.
B)the planet's mass and orbital distance.
C)the planet's mass and composition.
D)the planet's orbital period and eccentricity.
E)the planet's size and orbital distance.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The Doppler technique measures the velocity change of the star due to the gravitational tug of the orbiting planet. This velocity change can be used to calculate the mass of the planet through Kepler's laws of motion. The orbital distance can also be estimated from the mass and velocity of the star. Therefore, the correct choice is the planet's mass and orbital distance (B).

A Planet Is Detected Via the Doppler Technique