The resolving power of a telescope is a measure of the ability of the instrument to
A)form a plane image of a plane object.
B)produce a large image.
C)eliminate aberrations.
D)produce a bright image.
E)form distinctly separate images of points close together on the object.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The resolving power of a telescope is directly related to its ability to distinguish between closely spaced objects or points. This is referred to as angular resolution, and is determined by factors such as the diameter of the objective lens or mirror, as well as the wavelength of the light being observed. Therefore, choice E (form distinctly separate images of points close together on the object) best describes the resolving power of a telescope.

The Resolving Power of a Telescope Is a Measure of the Ability