What property of a star's spectral lines allows astronomers to measure stellar masses?
A) redshift
B) width
C) variability
D) depth

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The width of a star's spectral lines can indicate its mass because broader lines are typically associated with more massive stars. This is due to the effects of gravitational broadening, where the star's strong gravity affects the energy levels of its atoms, leading to broader spectral lines.

What Property of a Star's Spectral Lines Allows Astronomers to Measure