What Does the Spectrum of a Star Tell Us about Its Temperature?
ES2803  Standard Spectra

When astronomers first started analyzing spectra, they had to work through the same task you just completed. They looked for small similarities and differences among spectra. By comparing hundreds of spectra, astronomers eventually identified a limited number of spectral patterns, and they used these general patterns to categorize all spectra.

Categorize the spectra again. This time, place them in one of the columns based on similarities with the standard stars at the top of each column. Use similar patterns in the locations and widths of absorption lines to place each spectrum.

  !   Click and drag the spectra to place them in the appropriate column, then answer question number 3 below.
 

 
   

3. Record a list of the spectra you assigned to each group. How does this classification scheme compare with your first one?

  
    


	

 	

		
			
	

	
	

		 
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