You measure the spectrum of a star and are unable to see absorption lines associated with iron. What can you conclude?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The visibility of absorption lines in a star's spectrum depends on the temperature of the star's atmosphere. If the temperature is either too high or too low, it might not be conducive to the formation of absorption lines for certain elements, including iron. This does not necessarily mean there is no iron present; it could be that the conditions are not right for those lines to be visible.

You Measure the Spectrum of a Star and Are Unable