Why are spectral lines useful in classifying stars?(1 point)
Responses
They show a star's location.
They show a star's location.
They show the composition of a star.
They show the composition of a star.
They indicate a star's age.
They indicate a star's age.
They show the layers that make up a star.
They show the composition of a star.
The correct answer is:
They show the composition of a star.
Spectral lines are formed when light from a star passes through its atmosphere and certain wavelengths of light are absorbed or emitted by the elements present in the star. Each element has a unique set of signature spectral lines, so by analyzing these lines, astronomers can determine the composition of a star. This information is crucial in classifying stars and understanding their physical properties.