Spectral lines are often referred to as the stars' "fingerprints" because:
A)fingerprints also consist of individual lines that make a pattern.
B)both are unique to their source.
C)both can be easily categorized.
D)both are characteristic of the individual that produced them.
E)All of these are correct.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Spectral lines are unique to the elements that emit them, much like fingerprints are unique to individuals. Both consist of patterns (lines in the case of spectral lines and ridges in fingerprints), are unique to their source (specific elements or individuals), can be categorized (into different elements or individual identities), and are characteristic of the individual or element that produced them.

Spectral Lines Are Often Referred to as the Stars' "Fingerprints