Question

An electromagnetic wave leaves the surface of a neutron star and travels outward. As the wave gets farther from the star's surface, the _____ and the _____.

A) speed decreases; wavelength increases
B) frequency increases; wavelength decreases
C) frequency decreases; wavelength increases
D) speed decreases; frequency decreases

Answer 1

As an electromagnetic wave travels outward from the surface of a neutron star, the frequency of the wave decreases and the wavelength increases.

Step-by-step explanation:

The correct answer is Option C) frequency decreases; wavelength increases.

As an electromagnetic wave travels outward from the surface of a neutron star, the frequency of the wave decreases and the wavelength increases. This is because as the wave moves farther from the star's surface, it has to overcome the gravitational pull of the star, which causes a decrease in frequency and an increase in wavelength.

For example, consider the visible light spectrum. Red light has a longer wavelength and lower frequency compared to blue light. As red light travels through space, its wavelength increases and its frequency decreases.