If you want to observe the radiation from gas inside an interstellar bubble created by a supernova, which observatory will be most useful?

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Study for the University of Central Florida AST2002 Astronomy Exam. Prepare with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each with hints and explanations. Get ready for your final!

Observing the radiation from gas inside an interstellar bubble created by a supernova particularly requires the ability to detect high-energy processes. The Chandra X-ray Observatory is specifically designed to observe X-rays, which are produced by extremely hot gas in these environments. The intense heat from stellar explosions, such as supernovae, can ionize the surrounding gas and heat it to millions of degrees, resulting in the emission of X-rays. Chandra's sensitivity to this form of radiation makes it the best tool for studying the remnants of supernovae and the hot, diffused gas within the surrounding interstellar bubble.

In contrast, other observatories have different focuses. The Hubble Space Telescope is primarily geared towards capturing optical and ultraviolet light, making it less effective for high-energy phenomena. The Very Large Array specializes in radio wavelengths, which are useful for studying different properties of cosmic phenomena but do not provide the necessary detail for X-ray emissions. The Arecibo Observatory was designed for radio astronomy and atmospheric science, and while it contributed tremendously to our understanding of the universe, it does not serve the purpose of observing higher energy X-ray emissions from supernova remnants. Thus, the Chandra X-ray Observatory stands out as the most appropriate choice for this observation.