CEPHEID VARIABLE Meaning and
Definition
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A cepheid variable is a type of pulsating star that exhibits periodic changes in its brightness with a regular and predictable pattern. These celestial objects belong to a class of variable stars whose brightness fluctuates due to the expansion and contraction of their outer layers. Cepheid variables are named after Delta Cephei, the first star of this kind to be discovered.
The key characteristic of a cepheid variable is its pulsation period, which is directly related to its intrinsic brightness. This means that by measuring the periodicity of its brightness changes, astronomers can determine the star's luminosity. This property makes cepheid variables valuable tools for calculating the distances to faraway galaxies and for studying the scale of the universe.
Cepheid variables have been classified into two main categories: classical cepheids and Type II cepheids. Classical cepheids are more massive and typically found in the disk of spiral galaxies, while Type II cepheids are generally less massive and can be found in both spiral and elliptical galaxies. Despite their differences, both types follow a relation known as the period-luminosity relationship, which allows astronomers to estimate their distances accurately.
The importance of cepheid variables in astronomy cannot be overstated, as they have played a crucial role in the development of cosmic distance scales and the understanding of the vastness of the universe.
Etymology of CEPHEID VARIABLE
The word "cepheid" comes from the name of the first discovered star of this type, Delta Cephei. The star Delta Cephei was discovered to be a variable star in 1784 by British astronomer John Goodricke. The name "Cepheid" is derived from the star's location in the constellation Cepheus. The term "variable" simply indicates that this type of star changes in brightness over a specific period of time.
