Learning objective

Understand that the distance to a distant galaxy can be determined by measuring the brightness of a supernova within that galaxy.

Read the explanation, check the common trap, then practise with flashcards and questions.

Practise this topic Read the exam answer Topic hub

Exam focus

Read the explanation.
Check key terms.
Practise with linked questions.

Cambridge IGCSE PhysicsSpace physicsSupplement content

Study support

Understand this objective

Quick explanation

Understand that the distance to a distant galaxy can be determined by measuring the brightness of a supernova within that galaxy

This point belongs to The Universe, especially The Universe outcomes.
You need to be able to understand that the distance to a distant galaxy can be determined by measuring the brightness of a supernova within that galaxy.
The key ideas to know are Know.
Use the linked flashcards and practice questions to check recall, then practise applying the idea in an exam-style answer.

Key concepts

Know

Why it matters

This objective helps connect The Universe outcomes to exam-style questions, flashcards, and revision notes for The Universe.

Revision tools

Choose how to practise

Back to topic hub

Flashcards10 linked cards

Flashcard 1 of 10

Press Space to flip, arrows to move

Practice Questions7 linked questions

Question 1 of 7

Choose an answer, get feedback, then move sideways through the set.

0 of 5 attempted

Paper 4 structured question: The Universe

Paper 4Theory (Extended)1 marks

Description

Supernova Observation

A supernova is observed with an apparent brightness of 1.0 x 10^-9 W/m^2. The absolute brightness of this type of supernova is known to be 1.0 x 10^-6 W/m^2.

a
State the formula used to calculate the distance to the galaxy.
Your answer
Aim for approximately 1 distinct marking point.
[1]

Revision notestopic notes

Open the full topic revision notes when you are ready to review this objective in context.

Open revision notes

Related learning objectives

Understand that the Milky Way is one of countless galaxies that constitute the Universe, with a diameter of about 100,000 light-years.
The Universe outcomes
Explain redshift as the increase in the wavelength of electromagnetic radiation from stars and galaxies that are moving away from us.
The Universe outcomes
Recognize that light from distant galaxies appears redshifted compared to light observed on Earth.
The Universe outcomes
Acknowledge that the redshift observed in light from distant galaxies indicates that the Universe is expanding, supporting the Big Bang Theory.
The Universe outcomes
Understand that cosmic microwave background radiation (CMBR) is microwave radiation of a specific frequency detected throughout space.
The Universe outcomes

Revision hubs

Move back to a broader study route

Cambridge IGCSE Physics resources