Astronomy quiz question: telescope funding proposals

Astronomy 210 Quiz 3, Fall Semester 2009
Cuesta College, San Luis Obispo, CA

(Electromagnetic spectrum provided on Quiz 3, with transparency of Earth's atmosphere indicated for different forms of light. Downward lengths of gray bars indicates amount transmitted through atmosphere.)


Based on being able to detect its wavelength, and cost of location, which telescope should be funded?
(A) An x ray detector on a remote ocean platform.
(B) A visible light telescope on the moon.
(C) An ultraviolet detector in space.
(D) An far infrared telescope in the Mojave desert.

Correct answer: (C)

X-rays and far infrared both do not penetrate the atmosphere to sea level. A visible light telescope on the moon would be much more expensive than a comparable Earth-based ground telescope. Since ultraviolet does not penetrate the atmosphere, it would be necessary to move it into space to make observations.

Section 70158
(A) : 4 students
(B) : 1 student
(C) : 27 students
(D) : 16 students

Success level: 59% (including partial credit for multiple-choice)
Discrimination index (Aubrecht & Aubrecht, 1983): 0.72

Section 70160
(A) : 2 students
(B) : 5 students
(C) : 31 students
(D) : 6 students

Success level: 72% (including partial credit for multiple-choice)
Discrimination index (Aubrecht & Aubrecht, 1983): 0.91