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To determine the chemical composition of stars, scientists look at what's called the emission spectrum of the stars, which can be obtained from the light coming from the stars. Thin lines are observed in different parts of the spectrum, which correspond to different chemicals. In other words, the lines are like fingerprints of chemicals. By looking at these fingerprints, one can determine what type of chemicals are present in the star.

To determine the surface temperature of stars, we use the Wien's Law.

It states that:

Peak wavelength x Surface Temperature = 2.898x10-3

Peak wavelength can be determined by looking at the light coming from the star in question. It is the wavelength with the highest intensity.

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Related Questions

What characteristics do scientists measure to determine the temperature and composition of stars?

Scientists measure the brightness, color, and spectral lines of stars to determine their temperature and composition. By analyzing the light emitted by stars, scientists can infer important information about their properties. The temperature of a star is usually determined by examining the peak wavelength of its emitted light, while the spectral lines reveal the elements present in the star's atmosphere.


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What can a scientist learn about from a stars spectrum?

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What can scientists learn from a stars light?

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Stars are analyzed through telescopic observations, spectroscopy, and measurements of their characteristics such as luminosity, temperature, mass, and composition. Scientists also study the light emitted by stars to determine their age and evolutionary stage. Additionally, stellar models and simulations are used to understand the complex processes happening within stars.


How do scientist determine the surface temperature of the stars?

Scientists determine the surface temperature of stars by analyzing their spectral characteristics. They use a device called a spectroscope to split the starlight into its component colors, which reveals absorption lines that correspond to specific elements. By studying the intensity and distribution of these lines, scientists can calculate the surface temperature of the star.


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Stars can be described by their temperature, size (diameter), brightness (luminosity), color, composition, and age. These characteristics help scientists classify and study stars in the universe.


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Scientists can determine the composition of distant stars by analyzing their spectra. The light emitted by stars contains distinct absorption or emission lines that correspond to specific elements present in the star's atmosphere. By studying these spectral lines, scientists can identify the elements present in a star and determine its chemical composition.


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