In the orbital plane of a binary star system matter can be transferred from one star to the other at the ________, located directly between the two stars is the point where the Roche lobes meet.
A) turnoff points
B) horizontal branch
C) Lagrangian points
D) synchrotron points
E) radiation belts

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The Lagrangian points are locations in a binary star system where the gravitational forces of the two stars and the centrifugal force balance each other out. At the L1 Lagrangian point, located directly between the two stars, matter can be transferred from one star to the other. The Roche lobes are regions of space around each star where gravitational forces dominate and material within these lobes is gravitationally bound to its respective star. At the L1 point, the Roche lobes of the two stars meet and allow for material to cross the gravitational barrier between the stars.

In the Orbital Plane of a Binary Star System Matter