20
QuizMultiple Choice

The Nature of the Universe — Test

Question 20 • Earth and Space Science

Which method is most appropriate for measuring the distance to a star cluster located 50,000 light-years away in the Milky Way?

Answer
A
parallax
B
Cepheid variables
C
type Ia supernovae
D
redshift

Explanation

Cepheid variables are useful distance indicators within the Milky Way and beyond because their pulsation periods reveal their luminosities. Comparing a Cepheid’s known luminosity with how bright it appears lets astronomers estimate its distance, including at 50,000 light-years. Parallax is generally useful over much shorter distances, while type Ia supernovae and redshift are mainly used for much more distant objects.

AI-written and checked against the verified answer.

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