When we see X-rays from an accretion disk in a binary system,we can't immediately tell whether the accretion disk surrounds a neutron star or a black hole.Suppose we then observe each of the following phenomena in this system.Which one would rule out the possibility of a black hole?
A)intense X-ray bursts
B)spectral lines from the companion star that alternately shift to shorter and longer wavelengths
C)visible and ultraviolet light from the companion star
D)bright X-ray emission that varies on a time scale of a few hours

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Intense X-ray bursts can be associated with neutron star systems, specifically from thermonuclear explosions on their surfaces. Such bursts cannot occur in black hole systems because black holes do not have a surface on which material can accumulate and then explode.

When We See X-Rays from an Accretion Disk in a Binary