C14 Quick Lab Spectral patterns in stars are a little like star
“fingerprints.” By spreading a star’s light into its
spectral colours and “reading” the black spectral
lines that appear, we can identify the individual
chemical elements making up the star. Knowing
what elements are in a particular star gives us
information about how the star formed, whether it is
likely to be surrounded by rocky planets like Earth,
and how it will probably come to an end someday.
In this activity, you will analyze and compare
spectral patterns to determine the chemical make-up
of several stars.
Purpose
To identify the make-up of two mystery stars by
analyzing their spectral patterns
Procedure
1. Looking at Figure 8.14, study the spectral
patterns for the five elements shown.
2. Answer the questions below, recording your
answers in your notebook.
Questions
3. Which three elements are visible iin mystery
star A?
4. Which three elements are visible in mystery
star B?
5. Which element listed in the spectral chart is not
present in either mystery star?
6. Make a sketch of the spectrum that would be
expected in a nebula that contains mainly
hydrogen and lithium.
Analyzing Stars by Their Spectral Patterns