Final answer:
Magnification in telescopes makes objects appear larger but does not solely determine the smallest details that can be resolved. The aperture size, lens quality, and atmospheric conditions are also crucial factors affecting detail resolution in telescopic images.
Step-by-step explanation:
Does Magnification Affect Telescope Detail Resolution?
When examining the question, does the magnification of the telescope contribute to the smallest amount of detail the telescope can show, it is important to understand that while magnification can make objects appear larger and potentially reveal more details, it is not the sole factor in determining the level of detail a telescope can resolve. The resolution, or the ability to see fine details, is primarily determined by the size of the telescope's aperture; larger apertures generally produce sharper images. However, greater angular magnification, achieved by using an objective lens with a long focal length combined with an eyepiece with a short focal length, does make objects appear larger, potentially making more details visible to the observer.
It is also crucial to note that there are limits to the details observable by a telescope. These limits are imposed by factors such as lens quality, atmospheric disturbance, and even imperfections in the optics of the telescope mirrors. Therefore, while magnification can improve detail visibility to some extent, by itself, it does not guarantee the smallest amount of detail that can be resolved.
Magnification also causes the image to magnify atmospheric turbulence, so if the magnification is too high, it can result in a shaky and blurred image. To achieve the best balance and utilize magnification effectively within the range of useful magnification, good quality telescopes come equipped with a variety of eyepieces.