Author Question: Why are Cepheid variables so important to the study of the Milky Way Galaxy? What will be an ... (Read 56 times)

BRWH

  • Hero Member
  • *****
  • Posts: 553
Why are Cepheid variables so important to the study of the Milky Way Galaxy?
 
  What will be an ideal response?

Question 2

How does gravity explain the presence of the tides we experience on Earth?
 
  What will be an ideal response?



tsternbergh47

  • Sr. Member
  • ****
  • Posts: 311
Answer to Question 1

Cepheid variables have a known relationship between their luminosity (absolute magnitude) and their pulsation period. An astronomer can easily observe the pulsation period of the variable star to determine its absolute magnitude and compare this with the apparent magnitude to determine the distance to the star. Cepheid variables are very luminous. This allows them to be seen over very long distances.
Cepheid variables are present in very distant globular clusters, so the distance to these clusters can be determined by studying the Cepheids. The distribution of globular clusters is a key to determining the center of the galaxy, since globular clusters orbit around this center.

Answer to Question 2

Tides are caused by small differences in gravitational forces. For example, Earth's gravity attracts your body downward with a force equal to your weight. The Moon is less massive and more distant, so it attracts your body with a force that is a tiny percent of your weight. You don't notice that little force, but Earth's oceans respond visibly.



Related Topics

Need homework help now?

Ask unlimited questions for free

Ask a Question
 

Did you know?

The liver is the only organ that has the ability to regenerate itself after certain types of damage. As much as 25% of the liver can be removed, and it will still regenerate back to its original shape and size. However, the liver cannot regenerate after severe damage caused by alcohol.

Did you know?

Bisphosphonates were first developed in the nineteenth century. They were first investigated for use in disorders of bone metabolism in the 1960s. They are now used clinically for the treatment of osteoporosis, Paget's disease, bone metastasis, multiple myeloma, and other conditions that feature bone fragility.

Did you know?

Aspirin is the most widely used drug in the world. It has even been recognized as such by the Guinness Book of World Records.

Did you know?

Congestive heart failure is a serious disorder that carries a reduced life expectancy. Heart failure is usually a chronic illness, and it may worsen with infection or other physical stressors.

Did you know?

There are actually 60 minerals, 16 vitamins, 12 essential amino acids, and three essential fatty acids that your body needs every day.

For a complete list of videos, visit our video library