Question

Cameron gave a speech in class about the use of infrared technology in government projects. After his speech, one of his classmates asked, "This is all very impressive, but what is infrared technology and how does it affect me?" It was then that Cameron realized that he

A. failed to persuade the audience to share his views on a controversy
B. misjudged the audience's knowledge on infrared technology
C. overlooked the audience's disposition toward the speaker
D. did not consider the physical setting
E. neglected to connect the topic to the audience's experiences

Answer 1

The proposal from the dean is not ideal for an infrared telescope as the near-ocean location and heated dome can interfere with infrared readings due to water vapor absorption, thermal emissions, and air turbulence.

Step-by-step explanation:

The dean's proposal to construct an infrared telescope near the ocean and within a heated dome may not be ideal for several reasons. Infrared telescopes are best situated in high and dry locations, such as the Chilean Andes Mountains, to minimize the absorption and distortion of infrared signals by atmospheric water vapor. The presence of water vapor near the ocean could significantly reduce the telescope's effectiveness. Additionally, a heated dome would likely produce thermal emissions, which can interfere with the observations made by an infrared telescope. Heat from the dome would also contribute to local air turbulence, which can further distort the infrared signals.

These considerations are critical because the quality of astronomical data depends highly on the observing conditions. For an infrared telescope to operate at its best, it must be situated in an environment that minimizes these disturbances, which is why observatories are often located at high altitudes in arid regions. This suggestion, made with the astronomers' comfort in mind, would likely compromise the scientific goals of such an expensive and sophisticated instrument.