Which form of celestial object is likely to produce radio waves due to its rapid rotation?

The correct answer is the pulsar, which is a highly magnetized, rotating neutron star that emits beams of electromagnetic radiation out of its magnetic poles. As these beams are emitted, they sweep across space like the beam of a lighthouse. Because pulsars have a very rapid rotation—often spinning several times per second—they produce periodic pulses of radio waves that can be detected by radio telescopes on Earth.

Pulsars are particularly known for their regularity and timing, allowing scientists to study their rotation and characteristics in great detail. This rapid rotation and strong magnetic fields create the conditions necessary for the emission of radio waves, making pulsars unique among celestial objects.

In contrast, other types of stars listed, like white dwarfs and red giants, do not have the same mechanisms for producing concentrated radio emissions. While neutron stars are related to pulsars, not all neutron stars emit detectable radio waves; it is the specific characteristics of pulsars—especially their rapid rotation and magnetic fields—that enable this phenomenon.