Step 1: Understanding the effect of an object on the telescope's image.
A telescope works by using two lenses: the objective lens (which gathers light) and the eyepiece lens (which magnifies the image). The object, when it sits on the objective lens, interferes with the light path and the image formed.
Step 2: Effect of the housefly on the image.
- The housefly is an opaque object that will block some of the light entering the objective lens. This will result in a reduction in the intensity of the image formed because less light will reach the eyepiece.
- Additionally, the housefly will cause some distortion and may reduce the clarity of the image as well.
Step 3: Conclusion.
The correct answer is (3), as the intensity of the image will be decreased due to the obstruction caused by the housefly.