Interstellar space (the space between the stars)is filled with extremely low-density hydrogen gas.In the vicinity of a hot star,this gas can be heated to a very high temperature.This hot,low-density gas will:
A) emit light at specific wavelengths characteristic of hydrogen.
B) emit light at all wavelengths in a blackbody spectrum, with emission lines characteristic of hydrogen superimposed on the spectrum.
C) emit light at all wavelengths in a blackbody spectrum characteristic of a hot gas.
D) reflect light at specific wavelengths characteristic of hydrogen.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

When low-density hydrogen gas is heated to a very high temperature, it will emit light at specific wavelengths characteristic of hydrogen, known as the hydrogen emission lines. This process is known as emission spectroscopy and is widely used to study the composition and temperature of various astrophysical objects, including stars and galaxies. Thus, choice A is the best option. Choice B is incorrect because blackbody spectra do not have emission lines, but rather, show a continuous spectrum. Choice C is also incorrect because blackbody spectra are not characteristic of a specific gas, but rather depend only on the temperature of the emitting body. Choice D is incorrect because reflection is a process in which light is redirected by a surface, and it does not produce emission or absorption lines specific to a gas.

Interstellar Space (The Space Between the Stars)is Filled with Extremely