Author Question: Explain why the observable properties of quasars imply that they are objects from the early Universe ... (Read 73 times)

bobthebuilder · **on:** Jul 27, 2018

Explain why the observable properties of quasars imply that they are objects from the early Universe controlled by supermassive black holes.

What will be an ideal response?

Question 2

The visible surface of the Sun is composed of solid matter.

a. True
b. False
Indicate whether the statement is true or false

ebe · **Reply #1 on:** Jul 27, 2018

Answer to Question 1

Quasars have continuous spectra with emission lines of hydrogen. The emission lines display very high redshifts, often greater than 1.0 . The high redshifts are proof that quasars are very distant. A large distance is associated with a long look-back time, so quasars must come from the early Universe.

In order to be visible at such large distances, quasars must be very luminous. The luminosity of a quasar can vary in very short times, sometimes as short as a few hours. The rapid fluctuations show that quasars are small objects, smaller than our Solar System. The only reasonable explanation for a compact, fluctuating high-luminosity source is a supermassive black hole.

Answer to Question 2

False