Basic questions about macbook pro + external monitor

Hi,
I have some very basic questions about using a Macbook Pro + external display. I don't actually have them but need to know how things works.
So, here they are:
1) Can I use the external display as the main display?
2) Will the external display run with its resolution or with that of the mbook pro?
3) Somewhere I read that you cannot keep the macbook pro open and get the full resolution of the external display. Is that true ?
4) Is it dangerous to keep the mbook closed while using the external display?
5) Does the usage of the external display impact on mbook performance?
I know...a lot of questions , but would be nice if someone could help me.
Thanks.

Hi - I am presently using an external display.
To answer your questions in sequence:
1. Yes you can use the external display as your main display. The way to enable that mode is to put your MacBook Pro to sleep, attach the external display. Wake up your MBPro with the lid closed and you will see the external display as you main display. You can alternatively set the external to "Mirror" your notebook by using preferences/display.
2. The external display will run at its resolution although you can adjust and calibrate it using Preferences/Display.
3. Not true. You get max resolution on both displays. Of course you may have to tweak as mentioned above.
4. Not at all. I use this mode all the time. Just make sure you initially set up as mentioned above and your LCD on the MBPro will stay off.
5. I have not seen any performance degradation whatsoever.
Hope this helps.

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http://support.apple.com/kb/HT1573
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take awhile?
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