What information about a binary star system is needed in order to calculate the sum of the masses of the two stars?
A)Orbital period and separation
B)Distance and spectral type
C)Age and temperature
D)Magnetic field and rotation period

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The sum of masses of the two stars in a binary system can be calculated using Kepler's third law which involves the orbital period and separation between the two stars. Knowing the distance and spectral type, age and temperature or magnetic field and rotation period does not provide sufficient information to calculate the sum of masses of the two stars.

What Information About a Binary Star System Is Needed in Order