What information about an astronomical object can be determined by observing its spectrum?
A) its temperature
B) its radial motion
C) its chemical composition
D) whether it has a strong magnetic field
E) All of the above

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Observing an astronomical object's spectrum can reveal information about all of the above aspects: temperature, radial motion, chemical composition, and magnetic field strength. The spectrum can reveal the wavelengths of light that are absorbed or emitted by the object, which can in turn be used to deduce these characteristics. For example, the presence or absence of certain absorption or emission lines can reveal the chemical elements present in the object, while the Doppler shift of these lines can reveal its radial motion. The intensity of certain lines can reveal the object's temperature, and the polarization of certain lines can reveal the presence of a magnetic field.

What Information About an Astronomical Object Can Be Determined by Observing