Which of the following properties cannot be determined from a spectrum of a star?
A) Speed perpendicular to my line of sight
B) Surface temperature
C) Chemical composition
D) Speed towards me or away from me

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The speed perpendicular to our line of sight cannot be determined from a spectrum of a star. Spectroscopy only provides information about a star's radial velocity, which is the speed towards or away from us. The speed perpendicular to our line of sight would require additional observational techniques, such as astrometry. Surface temperature and chemical composition can both be determined from a star's spectrum.

Which of the Following Properties Cannot Be Determined from a Spectrum