Astronomy quiz question: Edmund Scientific Astroscan® resolving power

Astronomy 210 Quiz 3, fall semester 2012
Cuesta College, San Luis Obispo, CA

The resolving power for the Edmund Scientific Astroscan® Newtonian focus reflector shown at right depends on:
(A) the width of the tube.
(B) the length of the tube.
(C) twice the length of the tube.
(D) three times the length of the tube.

Correct answer (highlight to unhide): (A)

The resolving power of a telescope depends on the diameter of the primary mirror (or lens).

Section 70158
Exam code: quiz03s3Er
(A) : 15 students
(B) : 14 students
(C) : 6 students
(D) : 2 students

Success level: 44% (including partial credit for multiple-choice)
Discrimination index (Aubrecht & Aubrecht, 1983): 0.70