A binary star system in the constellation Orion has an angular separation between the stars of 10−⁵ radians.Assuming a wavelength of 700 nm,what is the smallest aperture (diameter)telescope that will just resolve the two stars? (1 nm = 10−⁹ m) A) 8.5 cm B) 4.2 cm C) 6.1 cm D) 3.0 cm

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Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Using the Rayleigh criterion for resolution, θ = 1.22 * (λ/D), where θ is the angular separation, λ is the wavelength, and D is the diameter of the aperture. Solving for D gives D = 1.22 * (700 * 10^-9 m) / (10^-5 radians) = 8.54 * 10^-2 m, which is approximately 8.5 cm.

A Binary Star System in the Constellation Orion Has an Angular