Question
PS1.2) An astronomer uses a model to estimate the energy released by nuclear fusion in a star’s core. Which observation could best validate the model?
(10 Points)
Measuring the brightness of the star over time.
Observing the number of planets around the star.
Measuring the temperature of the star’s surface only.
Counting the number of asteroids in the star’s system.
(10 Points)
Measuring the brightness of the star over time.
Observing the number of planets around the star.
Measuring the temperature of the star’s surface only.
Counting the number of asteroids in the star’s system.
Answers
GPT-4o mini
The best observation to validate the astronomer's model estimating the energy released by nuclear fusion in a star's core would be:
**Measuring the brightness of the star over time.**
This method is directly related to the energy output of a star. Changes in a star's brightness can indicate variations in its energy production, which is influenced by nuclear fusion processes occurring in its core. Observing these changes allows astronomers to gather data that can confirm or refute the predictions made by the model regarding fusion energy release.
**Measuring the brightness of the star over time.**
This method is directly related to the energy output of a star. Changes in a star's brightness can indicate variations in its energy production, which is influenced by nuclear fusion processes occurring in its core. Observing these changes allows astronomers to gather data that can confirm or refute the predictions made by the model regarding fusion energy release.