Which type of binary can have their sizes measured directly by photometry?
A)virtual
B)visual
C)eclipsing
D)spectroscopic
E)astrometric

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Eclipsing binaries are those systems where the two stars periodically eclipse each other from our line of sight. This results in a decrease in brightness of the system during the eclipse. By measuring the decrease in brightness and the duration of the eclipse, we can directly determine the sizes of the stars involved in the binary system. Eclipsing binaries allow us to directly measure their sizes through photometry by observing the light curve as one star passes in front of the other, causing a decrease in brightness. Virtual, visual, spectroscopic, and astrometric binaries do not allow for direct measurement of size through photometry.

Which Type of Binary Can Have Their Sizes Measured Directly