Examine the figure below.What method of looking for extrasolar planets requires the planet to pass in front of the star?
A) radial velocity method
B) transit method
C) direct imaging

Question

Examine the figure below.What method of looking for extrasolar planets requires the planet to pass in front of the star? 
A) radial velocity method 
B) transit method 
C) direct imaging

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The transit method involves observing the dimming of a star's brightness as a planet passes in front of it. This method requires precise timing and high sensitivity to detect the small decrease in brightness, but it has been successful in detecting numerous exoplanets. The radial velocity method involves observing the slight wobble of a star as it is pulled by the gravitational force of an orbiting planet, and the direct imaging method involves taking actual pictures of the planet. Neither of these methods require the planet to pass in front of the star.

Examine the Figure Below