The diagram below shows the radial velocity curve of a double-line spectroscopic binary. Based on this radial velocity curve, which of the following statements is correct

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

According to the radial velocity curve, the variation in the velocity of both the stars is periodic. The amplitude of the curve depends on the mass ratio of the two stars. From the graph, we can see that the amplitude of the curve is greater for star B than star A. This indicates that star B is more massive than star A. However, we cannot determine the exact mass ratio from the given curve. Therefore, the only accurate statement that can be made is that star B is more massive than star A. Hence, option B is the correct choice.

The Diagram Below Shows the Radial Velocity Curve of a Double-Line