Light curve

Definition

A light curve is a graph that plots the brightness of an astronomical object over time. It is crucial for studying the variability and periodicity of stars and other celestial bodies.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Light curves are essential tools for identifying and categorizing variable stars.
2. The period of a variable star can be determined by analyzing its light curve.
3. Cepheid variables have a well-defined relationship between their luminosity and their pulsation period, which makes them key distance indicators.
4. Light curves can show different patterns such as periodic, quasi-periodic, or irregular variations depending on the type of variable star.
5. Studying the shape and amplitude of a light curve can provide insights into the physical properties of the star, such as size, temperature, and composition.

Review Questions

• What information can be derived from analyzing a light curve?
• How do Cepheid variables' light curves help in determining cosmic distances?
• What types of variations might you observe in different variable stars' light curves?

Related terms

Cepheid Variable: A type of variable star with a direct relationship between its luminosity and pulsation period, useful for measuring cosmic distances

Luminosity: The intrinsic brightness of a celestial object, often measured in relation to the Sun's brightness

Pulsation Period: The time interval over which a variable star completes one cycle of brightness variation