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In this Binary Systems Applet choose the binary star system "Capella". What is the ratio of the masses of the two stars? What is the distance of Capella A from the center of mass? What is the distance of Capella B from the center of mass? What is the ratio of these distances? Do these distances change with time? Why or why not? |
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Next choose the binary "57 And". What is the ratio of masses in this case? Stop the motion when the stars are at apoastron (furthest disance apart). What is the distance of each star from the c.m.? What is the ratio of these distances? Now stop the motion near periastron (closest approach) and determine the distances and ratio in this case. |
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Next look at the binary "epsilon ceti". What is the ratio of masses in this case? What is the consequence of this ratio in terms of distances from the center of mass? |