Final answer:
Magnification, particularly angular magnification, is critical in enhancing the details visible through a telescope, achieved by using a long focal length objective and a short focal length eyepiece. However, high magnification can lead to image distortion due to atmospheric disturbances, indicating there's a limit to its effectiveness.
Step-by-step explanation:
Does the magnification of the telescope contribute to the smallest amount of detail the telescope can show? The answer is A. Yes. Magnification plays a key role in how much detail a telescope can provide. Angular magnification specifically determines how much larger an object appears compared to observation with the unaided eye.
To achieve the greatest angular magnification, it is advisable to use an objective with a long focal length paired with an eyepiece that has a short focal length.
However, factors such as lens quality and atmospheric disturbance can limit the details observed. Although magnification can be adjusted by changing eyepieces, excessively high magnification can amplify atmospheric turbulence, leading to a distorted image.
Thus, while magnification is essential for revealing small details, there is a practical limit to its usefulness.