You want to determine whether a mystery object is a neutron star or a white dwarf. Which of the following properties would demonstrate that it is definitely a neutron star?
A) It dims and brightens more than twice per second.
B) It is surrounded by a planetary nebula.
C) It emits most strongly in visible and ultraviolet light.
D) Every decade or so, it erupts in a nova explosion.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Neutron stars can rotate very rapidly, causing them to dim and brighten multiple times per second, a characteristic not seen in white dwarfs.

You Want to Determine Whether a Mystery Object Is a Neutron