An astronomer studying a particular object in space finds that the object emits light only in specific,narrow emission lines.The correct conclusion is that this object
A) cannot consist of gases but must be a solid object.
B) is made up of a hot,dense gas surrounded by a rarefied gas.
C) is made up of a hot,dense gas.
D) is made up of a hot,low-density gas.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Objects that emit light at specific, narrow emission lines are typically made up of hot, low-density gas. These emission lines are characteristic of the energy levels of the atoms or ions in the gas, which emit photons at specific wavelengths when they transition between energy levels. This phenomenon is not characteristic of solid objects or dense gases, but rather of gases at low density where the atoms or ions are sufficiently isolated to emit their characteristic wavelengths without broadening due to collisions.

An Astronomer Studying a Particular Object in Space Finds That