What evidence exists that the Sun contains the element iron?
A) Solar spectra show absorption in spectral lines that are characteristic of iron and are unique to it.
B) The peak wavelength of the continuum spectrum of sunlight is characteristic of the emission spectrum of iron, as seen when a piece of iron is heated in the laboratory.
C) Scientists have collected meteorites composed of almost pure iron that originated in the Sun.
D) Magnetic fields exist in sunspots and on the Sun, and they must be produced by iron in the same way that Earth's magnetic field is generated.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Solar spectra display absorption lines that are specific to iron, indicating its presence in the Sun. These lines are unique fingerprints of elements, and the presence of iron's specific spectral lines in the Sun's spectrum is direct evidence of iron in the Sun.

What Evidence Exists That the Sun Contains the Element Iron