The Hertzsprung-Russell Diagram is
A) a graph of mass versus brightness for stars.
B) a graph of size versus mass for stars.
C) a graph of luminosity versus temperature for stars.
D) a graph of mass versus spectral type for stars.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The Hertzsprung-Russell Diagram (HR diagram) is a graph that shows the relationship between a star's luminosity and temperature. Luminosity is a measure of the star's intrinsic brightness, while temperature is a measure of the star's surface temperature. Therefore, the correct answer is C - a graph of luminosity versus temperature for stars. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because they do not accurately describe the variables presented on the HR diagram.

The Hertzsprung-Russell Diagram Is