Oh, right. They can only use the absorption spectrum.DarkMatter5 said:The blackbody spectrum and what you call the atomic spectra of the sun is one and the same. There is only one spectrum called the absorption spectrum. Scientists use that and look at the absorption lines to find out what elements are in the sun.
A blackbody spectrum is the electromagnetic radiation emitted by a perfect absorber and emitter of all wavelengths. It has a characteristic shape with a peak at a specific wavelength that depends on the temperature of the object.
The blackbody spectrum of the Sun is created by the thermal radiation from the Sun's hot gases, while the atomic spectrum is created by the absorption and emission of specific wavelengths of light by the Sun's atoms. By comparing the two spectra, we can identify the presence of specific elements in the Sun.
The peak wavelength of the blackbody spectrum of the Sun tells us its temperature, as determined by Wien's displacement law. The hotter the object, the shorter the peak wavelength of its blackbody spectrum.
The atomic spectrum of the Sun shows us the specific wavelengths of light that are absorbed and emitted by its atoms. By identifying these wavelengths, we can determine which elements are present in the Sun's atmosphere.
Yes, we can use the same techniques to study the spectra of other stars and determine their temperatures and compositions. By comparing the spectra of different stars, we can also gain insights into their evolutionary stages and possible planetary systems.