Astronomy quiz question: x-ray bursts

Astronomy 10 Quiz 10, Fall Semester 2007
Cuesta College, San Luis Obispo, CA

Astronomy 10 learning goal Q10.3

[3.0 points.] Which one of the following choices best describes a close pair (mass-exchanging) binary system that can have repeatable x-ray bursts?
(A) Two neutron stars.
(B) A massive main sequence star and a red dwarf.
(C) A black hole and a neutron star.
(D) A supergiant and a neutron star.
(E) A supergiant and a black hole.

Correct answer: (D)

The hydrogen shed from a supergiant will form a degenerate layer around a neutron star companion, and this outer layer will undergo fusion, producing an x-ray burst.

Student responses
Section 0135
(A) : 5 students
(B) : 3 students
(C) : 10 students
(D) : 9 students
(E) : 5 students

Student responses
Section 1073
(A) : 7 students
(B) : 3 student
(C) : 6 students
(D) : 22 students
(E) : 5 students

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