Question

visit the class action telescope simulator: telescope simulator observing the moon and selecting between the telescope apertures of 4, 6 and 8 inches. which size telescope has the best (smallest) resolving power? also note that changing the magnification (with different eye - pieces) does not change the resolving power! no answer text provided. 8 inch 6 inch 4 inch

Explanation:

Step1: Recall resolving - power formula

The resolving power of a telescope is given by $\theta = 1.22\frac{\lambda}{D}$, where $\theta$ is the angular resolution, $\lambda$ is the wavelength of light, and $D$ is the diameter (aperture) of the telescope. Smaller $\theta$ means better resolving power.

Step2: Analyze the relationship

Since $\theta$ is inversely proportional to $D$ ($\theta\propto\frac{1}{D}$) for a fixed $\lambda$, a larger - diameter telescope has a smaller angular resolution (better resolving power).

Answer:

8 inch