Stellar Spectral Analysis |
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Author(s): Aldo-Rafael Cos and Thomas Schuster
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Demonstration Equipment
- Teacher's Guide SED 695B; Fall 2005 |
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Principles illustrated: Electron configuration, wavelengths, spectral lines, excited electrons. |
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Standards addressed: Middle School: 4b.Students know that the Sun is one of many stars in the Milky Way galaxy and that stars may differ in size, temperature, and color. High School: 4f.
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Materials |
Explanation of principles involved
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Spectrum tube exciter, spectroscopes, assorted spectrum tubes (hydrogen, oxygen, nitrogen, helium, neon, argon, lithium), paper, colored pencils | Students oftentimes may question how scientists determine
the composition of our sun and other stars. By using the principle of
spectral analysis, it is possible for students to explore in a laboratory
setting how various elements are identified in stars. |
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Procedure: 1. After gathering required
materials, ensure that everything is in working order. |
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References & Links: Encyclopedia Britannica Online: http://www.britannica.com/eb/article-52822 NASA Supernova Chemistry: http://imagine.gsfc.nasa.gov/docs/teachers/lessons/supernova/supernova_chemistry.html
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