An Introduction to Modern Astrophysics · Problem 12.6

Main-Sequence and Post-Main-Sequence Stellar Evolution — Carroll & Ostlie

Physics — Astrophysics · isotopomer-probes

Problem

Explain why astronomers would use the isotopomers

{}^{13}

CO or C

{}^{18}

O, rather than the more common CO molecule, to probe deeply into a giant molecular cloud.