Telescopes · Physics · Stars
Spectroscopy
Say it: spek-TROSS-kuh-pee IPA: /spɛkˈtrɑskəpi/ noun
Spectroscopy: The study of radiation separated by wavelength or frequency.
A spectrum contains patterns that can reveal atoms, molecules, temperature, and motion. It lets astronomers investigate distant objects without collecting physical samples from them.
- Example
- Spectroscopy revealed absorption features in the star's light.
- Why astronomers use it
- It is one of astronomy's main tools for identifying composition and physical conditions.
- Tiny cosmic connection
- Spectroscopy covers more than visible rainbow colors; it also works with infrared, ultraviolet, and other wavelength ranges.
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Where to check it
Written for Cool Moon Facts in its own words; the sources cover the same idea in more depth.