binary system
noun
: binary star
also
: a similar system containing bodies (such as black holes) other than stars
Examples of binary system in a Sentence
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Despite its appearance, Spica is not a single star, but rather a binary system composed of a pair of massive stellar bodies that orbit one another once every four days at a separation of approximately 11 million miles (18 million kilometers).
—
Anthony Wood, Space.com, 29 July 2025
But that binary system is not the only option for these machines.
—Manon Bischoff, Scientific American, 18 July 2025
According to the researchers, a binary system happens when two celestial bodies orbit around the same center, similar to two figure skaters spinning while holding hands.
—Monica Cull, Discover Magazine, 6 Jan. 2025
Gravitational waves are the only way scientists can observe a collision in a binary system in which two black holes orbit each other.
—Jacopo Prisco, CNN Money, 16 July 2025
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Anthony Wood, Space.com, 29 July 2025
But that binary system is not the only option for these machines.
—Manon Bischoff, Scientific American, 18 July 2025
According to the researchers, a binary system happens when two celestial bodies orbit around the same center, similar to two figure skaters spinning while holding hands.
—Monica Cull, Discover Magazine, 6 Jan. 2025
Gravitational waves are the only way scientists can observe a collision in a binary system in which two black holes orbit each other.
—Jacopo Prisco, CNN Money, 16 July 2025
See All Example Sentences for binary system
Cite this Entry
“Binary system.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/binary%20system. Accessed 8 Aug. 2025.
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