midterm review for astronomy

Front

What are the discoveries made by the MESSENGER space probe to Mercury?

Back

The MESSENGER space probe discovered active volcanoes and a shrinking core on Mercury.

Front

What was the first space probe sent to Venus that analyzed its atmosphere?

Back

The first space probe sent to Venus that analyzed its atmosphere was Pioneer Venus.

Front

What is a neutron star with an extremely strong magnetic field called?

Back

A neutron star with an extremely strong magnetic field is known as a magnetar.

Front

What happens to light at the event horizon of a black hole as observed from outside?

Back

An outside observer would see the light coming from the event horizon infinitely blue-shifted.

Front

How does Mercury's core compare to that of Earth's moon?

Back

Mercury has a much larger core compared to Earth's moon.

Front

What is the significance of the event horizon in black hole physics?

Back

The event horizon is the boundary around a black hole beyond which no light or information can escape.

Front

What are the main components of Mercury's surface?

Back

Mercury's surface features include impact craters, smooth plains, and large cliffs.

Front

What is the primary composition of Venus's atmosphere?

Back

Venus's atmosphere is primarily composed of carbon dioxide, with clouds of sulfuric acid.

Front

What is a pulsar?

Back

A pulsar is a highly magnetized rotating neutron star that emits beams of electromagnetic radiation.

Front

What is the difference between a black hole and a neutron star?

Back

A black hole has a gravitational pull so strong that nothing can escape it, while a neutron star is a dense remnant of a supernova explosion.