Final answer:
An ideal astronomical detector should have high quantum efficiency, low noise, and a wide dynamic range. CCDs approach some of these ideal properties but have limitations in their dynamic range.
Step-by-step explanation:
The properties of an ideal astronomical detector are as follows:
- High quantum efficiency: The detector should be able to efficiently convert incoming photons into measurable electrical signals.
- Low noise: It is crucial for the detector to have minimal noise levels to accurately detect astronomical signals and distinguish them from background noise.
- Wide dynamic range: An ideal astronomical detector should be able to capture a broad range of signal intensities, from very faint to extremely bright objects.
A CCD (charge-coupled device) is a commonly used detector in astronomy. While it does not achieve the perfection of an ideal detector, it comes close to some properties. CCDs have high quantum efficiency and low noise levels, making them efficient at detecting faint astronomical signals. However, their dynamic range is limited compared to the ideal detector.