Which is not an advantage that a reflector telescope has over a refractor telescope?

Reflectors vs. Refractors: A Comparison

Astronomy enthusiasts often debate the advantages of reflector and refractor telescopes. Both types have their own strengths and weaknesses, making them suitable for different observing purposes. Reflectors, also known as reflecting telescopes, utilize mirrors to gather and focus light, while refractors use lenses for the same purpose. One common misconception is that reflectors are superior to refractors in every aspect, but this is not entirely true.

When comparing reflector telescopes to refractor telescopes, it is important to consider all factors to determine their advantages. Let's explore the statement that is not an advantage that a reflector telescope has over a refractor telescope.

A. Flaws and bubbles in the material inside a thick mirror are not a problem, while flaws and bubbles in the material inside a thick lens are. This statement highlights a key advantage of reflector telescopes. The mirrors used in reflectors are typically more resilient to imperfections compared to lenses used in refractor telescopes. The backing of the mirror supports it across its surface, minimizing the impact of any flaws or bubbles inside the mirror.

B. Reflectors can be built with much bigger apertures. This advantage allows reflectors to collect more light and view fainter objects in the night sky. The larger aperture of reflector telescopes makes them ideal for observing celestial bodies that require high light-gathering capabilities.

C. The device that collects the light is more easily supported in a reflector. Reflectors have a simpler design that allows the mirror to be easily supported from behind, making them practical for larger telescopes. This support structure ensures the stability and accuracy of the mirror's alignment for optimal viewing.

D. Reflectors avoid the problem of chromatic aberration in the lens. Chromatic aberration is a common issue in refractor telescopes, where different wavelengths of light bend unequally as they pass through the lens. Reflectors do not face this problem, providing clearer and more accurate images of celestial objects.

E. A reflector doesn’t have to deal with the twinkling of the stars, as a refractor does. This statement, however, is not entirely accurate. Both reflector and refractor telescopes are subject to the twinkling effect of stars caused by atmospheric turbulence. The twinkling, also known as atmospheric scintillation, affects all telescopes regardless of their design.

Final answer: The statement that is not an advantage that a reflector telescope has over a refractor telescope is E, which incorrectly claims reflectors don't have to deal with the twinkling of stars. This 'twinkling' effect is due to atmospheric conditions and affects both reflector and refractor telescopes alike.

Explanation: The question seeks to identify which statement is not an advantage of a reflector telescope over a refractor telescope. Let's review the options provided:

A: Flaws and bubbles in the mirror do not affect the reflector telescope as they would in a refractor telescope.

B: Reflectors can have larger apertures, which allows them to collect more light and view fainter objects.

C: The mirrors of a reflector can be easily supported from the back, making them more practical for large telescopes.

D: Reflectors do not suffer chromatic aberration, which is a distortion that can occur in refractor telescopes due to different wavelengths of light bending differently as they pass through the lens.

E: The claim that reflectors do not have to deal with the twinkling of stars, an atmospheric effect, is incorrect, as this is not an advantage of reflector over refractor telescopes; both types of telescopes have to contend with the twinkling effect caused by atmospheric turbulence.

Therefore, the correct answer is E. Both reflector and refractor telescopes are equally subject to the twinkling of stars caused by Earth's atmosphere.

Which is not an advantage that a reflector telescope has over a refractor telescope?
A. Flaws and bubbles in the material inside a thick mirror are not a problem, while flaws and bubbles in the material inside a thick lens are.
B. Reflectors can be built with much bigger apertures.
C. The device that collects the light is more easily supported in a reflector.
D. Reflectors avoid the problem of chromatic aberration in the lens.
E. A reflector doesn’t have to deal with the twinkling of the stars, as a refractor does.

The statement that is not an advantage that a reflector telescope has over a refractor telescope is E, which incorrectly claims reflectors don't have to deal with the twinkling of stars. This 'twinkling' effect is due to atmospheric conditions and affects both reflector and refractor telescopes alike.