228k views
1 vote
Explain how atomic spectra may be used to deduce chemical and physical data for stars.

1 Answer

5 votes

Final answer:

Spectra of stars can be analyzed to deduce chemical and physical data such as chemical composition, temperature, pressure, and motion.

Step-by-step explanation:

Spectra of stars can be analyzed to deduce chemical and physical data.

By examining the spectrum of a star, astronomers can determine its chemical composition, temperature, pressure, and motion. The spectrum provides information about the elements present in the star's atmosphere, with each element producing a unique pattern of spectral lines.

By comparing these lines to known atomic spectra in laboratories on Earth, astronomers can identify the elements in the star, even in distant galaxies.

User Nate Bunney
by
8.1k points