Which observation would NOT be an indication of a binary star system?
A) The "star" appears to move in a straight line against a background field of stars.
B) A "star" appears to become periodically dimmer and then brighter for a few hours at a time.
C) A "star" image periodically separates into two distinct images and then blends again.
D) The "star" appears to wiggle in its path across Earth's sky against the background stars.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

If a star appears to move in a straight line against a background field of stars, it is likely a single star and not a binary star system. The other options suggest the possibility of a binary system: B) periodic dimming and brightening could be an indication of an eclipsing binary, C) periodic separation and blending of the star image is a clear indication of a binary system, and D) wiggling in its path across Earth's sky could indicate a binary system with the stars orbiting around a common center of mass.

Which Observation Would NOT Be an Indication of a Binary