Astronomy instrumentation: Why radio telescopes can outperform optical ones in some situations. Consider operating conditions and the ability to observe through clouds and interstellar dust. Choose the correct option.
IIT JEE
Physics
Difficulty: Easy
Choose an option
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AThey can operate day and night and through clouds/dust with minimal attenuation
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BThey require no power to operate
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CThey magnify more than any optical instrument
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DThey work only in space, not on Earth
Answer
Correct Answer: They can operate day and night and through clouds/dust with minimal attenuation
Explanation
Concept
- Radio wavelengths are weakly affected by clouds and can penetrate interstellar dust better than optical light.
- Thus, radio telescopes can observe day/night and in suboptimal weather; with interferometry they also achieve high angular resolution.
Final AnswerThey can operate day and night and through clouds/dust with minimal attenuation