Astronomers observe a typical star using a telescope and a spectrometer. They will see:
A) a continuous spectrum
B) an absorption spectrum
C) an emission spectrum
D) a Doppler shift
E) more than one of the above

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A typical star observed with a telescope and a spectrometer will show an absorption spectrum, where light from the star passes through its cooler outer layers, absorbing specific wavelengths and leaving dark lines in the spectrum. Additionally, a Doppler shift can be observed if the star is moving relative to Earth, causing the spectral lines to shift towards the red (moving away) or blue (moving towards) end of the spectrum.

Astronomers Observe a Typical Star Using a Telescope and a Spectrometer