« previous next »

Author Question: The Kepler mission searches for Earth-like planets by looking for the dip in the brightness of a ... (Read 80 times)

rmenurse

  • Hero Member
  • *****
  • Posts: 513
on: Jul 27, 2018
The Kepler mission searches for Earth-like planets by looking for the dip in the brightness of a star as such a planet transited across it. Why does this technique actually miss the vast majority of planets?
 
  What will be an ideal response?

Question 2

Galileo challenged the idea that objects in the heavens were perfect by
 
  A) showing that heavy objects fall at the same rate as lighter objects.
  B) observing sunspots on the Sun and mountains on the Moon.
  C) proving Kepler's laws were correct.
  D) inventing the telescope.


bubulittle310@msn.cn

  • Sr. Member
  • ****
  • Posts: 281
Reply #1 on: Jul 27, 2018
Answer to Question 1

By searching for transits, Kepler can only detect those planets with orbits that cross our line of sight to the star. This means the orbit must be very close to edge-on. Because planetary systems around other stars will have a random orientation to us, most planets will not cross our line of sight and cause a dip in the star's brightness. Therefore, Kepler will miss the vast majority of planetary systems. Nevertheless, this is the best method of detection using current technology.

Answer to Question 2

B


Related Topics

Need homework help now?

Ask unlimited questions for free

Ask a Question

rmenurse

  • Hero Member
  • *****
  • Posts: 513
Reply #2 on: Jul 27, 2018
TY


bubulittle310@msn.cn

  • Sr. Member
  • ****
  • Posts: 281
Reply #3 on: Jul 27, 2018
You're welcome


« previous next »
 

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?

Drug abusers experience the following scenario: The pleasure given by their drug (or drugs) of choice is so strong that it is difficult to eradicate even after years of staying away from the substances involved. Certain triggers may cause a drug abuser to relapse. Research shows that long-term drug abuse results in significant changes in brain function that persist long after an individual stops using drugs. It is most important to realize that the same is true of not just illegal substances but alcohol and tobacco as well.

Did you know?

If you could remove all of your skin, it would weigh up to 5 pounds.

Did you know?

The immune system needs 9.5 hours of sleep in total darkness to recharge completely.

Did you know?

Parkinson's disease is both chronic and progressive. This means that it persists over a long period of time and that its symptoms grow worse over time.

Annual net primary productivity on Earth. Annual net primary productivity on Earth.
Schematic of the Earth–Moon system (without a consistent scale) Schematic of the Earth–Moon system (without a consistent scale)
Earth Earth
Gravity on Earth Vs. Gravity in Bed Gravity on Earth Vs. Gravity in Bed
The Oceans of Earth The Oceans of Earth
Early Earth Early Earth
Video: Pressure Flow Model Animation

For a complete list of videos, visit our video library