If an object doubles its luminosity in 10 hours, how large can the emitting source of light be?
A)about 10 parsecs across
B)about 10 light- years across
C)about 10 light- hours across
D)varies depending on how luminous the object is
E)varies depending on how far away the object is

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The doubling of luminosity in 10 hours suggests that the emitting source is undergoing a significant change in its internal structure or process, such as a nova or supernova explosion. Since the change is happening on a relatively short timescale (10 hours), the emitting source cannot be larger than the distance light can travel in that time, which is about 10 light-hours. Therefore, the best choice is C, about 10 light-hours across.

If an Object Doubles Its Luminosity in 10 Hours, How