The two Keck 10-m telescopes,separated by a distance of 85 m,can operate as an interferometer.What is its resolution when it observes in the infrared at a wavelength of 2 microns?
A) 0.01 arcsec
B) 0.006 arcsec
C) 0.05 arcsec
D) 0.2 arcsec

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The resolution of an interferometer can be calculated as λ/d, where λ is the wavelength of observation and d is the distance between the telescopes. Plugging in the given values, we get resolution = 2 microns / 85 m = 0.006 arcsec. Therefore, the answer is choice B.

The Two Keck 10-M Telescopes,separated by a Distance of 85