The element helium was discovered (through spectroscopy) in the atmosphere of the Sun before it was discovered in trace amounts on Earth. This was possible because:
A)helium is the simplest element in its atomic structure.
B)the helium on Earth ultimately came from the Sun; thus we know the structure of solar helium must be the same as that of terrestrial helium.
C)all helium atoms in the universe are believed to be fundamentally the same.
D)both Earth and the Sun sweep up helium in their motion through space, so it is not surprising that the helium discovered on the Sun was the same as terrestrial helium.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Helium atoms, like all elemental atoms, are consistent in their fundamental structure across the universe. This universality allows scientists to identify elements like helium in various cosmic locations, including the Sun, through their unique spectral lines.

The Element Helium Was Discovered (Through Spectroscopy) in the Atmosphere