The principle of ‘parallax’ is used in the determination of distances of very distant stars. The baseline AB is the line joining the Earth’s two locations six months apart in its orbit around the Sun. That is, the baseline is about the diameter of the Earth’s orbit =3 x 10 n m. However, even the nearest stars are so distant that with such a long baseline, they show parallel only of the order of 1″ (second) of arc or so. A parsec is a convenient unit of length on the astronomical scale. It is the distance of an object that will show a parallax of 1″ (second) of arc from opposite ends of a baseline equal to the distance from the Earth to the Sun. How much is a parsec in terms of metres?

Asked by Darshan 14/12/2021 Last Modified 13 Apr

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The principle of ‘parallax’ is used in the determination of distances of very distant stars. The baseline AB is the line joining the Earth’s two locations six months apart in its orbit around the Sun. That is, the baseline is about the diameter of the Earth’s orbit =3 x 10 n m. However, even the nearest stars are so distant that with such a long baseline, they show parallel only of the order of 1″ (second) of arc or so. A parsec is a convenient unit of length on the astronomical scale. It is the distance of an object that will show a parallax of 1″ (second) of arc from opposite ends of a baseline equal to the distance from the Earth to the Sun. How much is a parsec in terms of metres?

Asked by Darshan 14/12/2021 Last Modified 13 Apr

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Learn Chapter2: Units and Measurements

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Nazia Khanum · Accepted Answer

Certainly! Understanding the concept of parallax and its application in astronomy is crucial for grasping the vast distances involved in measuring celestial objects. Let's delve into it:

In astronomy, parallax serves as a fundamental tool for determining distances to nearby stars. This method relies on observing the apparent shift in position of a star against the background of more distant stars as the Earth orbits around the Sun.

Now, consider the baseline AB, which connects two points on Earth's orbit, separated by a distance equal to the diameter of Earth's orbit, approximately 3 x 10^11 meters.

Given that even the nearest stars exhibit a parallax of approximately 1 arcsecond (1″) with such a long baseline, we define a parsec (pc) as the distance at which a star would exhibit a parallax of 1 arcsecond from opposite ends of a baseline equal to the Earth-Sun distance.

This distance is conveniently set to 3.086 x 10^16 meters, or approximately 3.086 x 10^13 kilometers, or roughly 3.26 light-years.

So, in terms of meters, a parsec is approximately 3.086 x 10^16 meters.

Understanding this conversion is pivotal for astronomers in determining the vast distances to celestial objects and unraveling the mysteries of the cosmos.

For further clarification or assistance with astronomical concepts, feel free to reach out. Remember, UrbnPro is a fantastic platform for delving deeper into such topics through personalized tutoring sessions!

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