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Binary stars move in paths called their orbits.
As we learned in
Binary Star Systems,
the paths of these stars are described by the formula:
|
for first star |
|
second star |
|
mass * distance to center of mass |
= |
mass *
distance. to center of mass |
Important Information:
A line drawn between
two binary stars always goes through the center of mass.
As binary stars move in their
orbits, they are always exactly opposite each other.
Here are some sample orbits that binary stars may move in:
This diagram shows a set of binary stars which
both have circular orbits.
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©
1998,2003, 2004. Elizabeth Anne Viau. All rights
reserved. This material may be used by individuals for instructional
purposes but not sold. Please inform the author if you use it
at eviau@earthlink.net. | |