The overall dimming of starlight by interstellar matter is called:

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Extinction is the most appropriate term for the overall dimming of starlight due to interstellar matter. This is because the interstellar matter absorbs and scatters some of the light, causing it to be extinguished before it reaches our telescopes. Reddening, absorption, emission, and scattering are all processes that contribute to extinction, but extinction is the overall effect. Extinction refers to the overall dimming of starlight by interstellar matter, which includes both absorption and scattering. Reddening refers to the shifting of starlight towards longer, redder wavelengths due to dust scattering, which can be separate from overall dimming. Absorption and emission specifically refer to the absorption or emission of light by specific atoms or molecules, which can contribute to extinction but are not comprehensive explanations for it. Scattering specifically refers to the redirection of light by particles, which can contribute to extinction but is not the only mechanism involved.

The Overall Dimming of Starlight by Interstellar Matter Is Called