Why would astronomers be interested in placing a gamma ray detecting observatory in space?
A)to map gamma ray emissions from radioactive elements on Earth
B)to detect nuclear weapons tests on Earth
C)to map high-energy electromagnetic waves from distant sources that would be blocked out or scattered by Earth's atmosphere
D)to map gamma ray emissions coming from the Sun

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Earth's atmosphere absorbs or scatters high-energy electromagnetic waves like gamma rays, so placing a gamma ray detecting observatory in space would allow astronomers to detect and study these waves from distant sources without interference. Mapping gamma ray emissions from radioactive elements on Earth or detecting nuclear weapons tests on Earth would not require a space-based observatory, and gamma ray emissions from the Sun could be studied using instruments on Earth or in orbit around the Earth.

Why Would Astronomers Be Interested in Placing a Gamma Ray