Exam-style question
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How does the temperature of a star affect its absorption spectrum?.
- A.It does not affect the spectrum
- B.Higher temperatures result in more absorption lines
- C.Lower temperatures result in more absorption lines
- D.It shifts the spectrum to longer wavelengths
Model answer
What a good answer should say
- Higher temperatures result in more absorption lines
Explanation
Why this works
As a star's temperature increases, the energy of the photons emitted also increases, which can lead to more ionization of elements in the star's atmosphere. This evidence shows that higher temperatures can create more distinct absorption lines in the spectrum.
The implication is that temperature plays a significant role in the spectral characteristics of a star. Thus, the conclusion is that higher temperatures lead to a more complex absorption spectrum.
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