Three stars have the following apparent (m)and absolute (M)magnitudes: Star A: M = 1.8 m = 3.8
Star B: M = 2.5 m = 9.5
Star C: M = 7.6 m = 15.1
Which star is closest?
A) Star A
B) Star B
C) Star C
D) cannot be determined from these data

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The closer a star is to us, the brighter it appears in the sky. This means that the star with the smallest apparent magnitude (m) is the closest. In this case, Star A has the smallest apparent magnitude (m = 3.8) and therefore is closest.

Three Stars Have the Following Apparent (M)and Absolute (M)magnitudes: Star