Cosmic Distances

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School

New Mexico State University *

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171

Subject

Physics

Date

Dec 6, 2023

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docx

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2

Uploaded by PrivatePowerAlligator27

Cosmic Distances DISTANCE MODULUS For this lab, we will focus on two techniques that can be used to measure the distance modulus of objects in deep space – supernovas and Cepheid variable stars. Before we begin, though, we must understand what “distance modulus” means. Read through the background material on distance modulus . Use the distance modulus page to complete the following table. Are you having trouble with this table? Watch this teacher video for help . Object Apparent Magnitude (m) Absolute Magnitude (M) Distance Modulus (m - M) Distance (pc) Star A 2.4 10 Star B 5 16 Star C 10 25 Star D 8.5 0.5 Could one of the stars listed in the table above be an RR Lyrae star? Explain why or why not. because all the stars in RR look like they have an Absolute Magnitude of 0,5 CEPHEIDS Next, read through the background information on Cepheid Variable Stars . Suppose that a Type II Cepheid has an apparent magnitude (m) of 12 and a pulsation period of 3 days. Use the chart at right along with the period to find the absolute magnitude (M). Calculate the distance modulus (m - M) and then use the table on the distance modulus page to determine the distance to the Cepheid variable star. What is the distance? 6310pc
SUPERNOVAE Begin by reading the background information on supernovae . Watch this teacher video , which illustrates how supernova light curve data can be fit to models in order to measure the distance modulus of supernovae. Use the supernova lightcurve explorer to examine the data from supernova 1998aq. 1. What is the distance modulus of the supernova 1998aq? 2.512e+7 Completing the Lab 1. Return to the course and complete the lab quiz to demonstrate your understanding. 2. Submit your completed lab document using your instructor’s online dropbox .
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