Question

which statement describes absolute and apparent brightness? absolute brightness and apparent brightness are identical ways to describe the brightness of a star. absolute brightness and apparent brightness change with the distance from the star to the observer. absolute brightness depends on the distance from the star to the observer, whereas apparent brightness is always the same. absolute brightness is the actual amount of light produced by the star, whereas apparent brightness changes with distance from the observer.

Explanation:

• Absolute brightness: It represents the actual light - producing capacity of a star, which is an inherent property of the star and does not change with the distance from the observer.
• Apparent brightness: It is related to the distance between the star and the observer. According to the inverse - square law of light, as the distance from the observer to the star changes, the apparent brightness changes. For example, if a star is farther away, its apparent brightness will be dimmer (assuming no other factors like inter - stellar dust absorption).

Answer:

Absolute brightness is the actual amount of light produced by the star, whereas apparent brightness changes with distance from the observer.