Spectra Graph: Definition & Examples

[UrbanXrisis]

what is a graph of a spectra called?

such as this one: http://tdc-www.harvard.edu/instruments/ech/echg.gif

is that called a spectragraph? or spectrograph? not sure...

 

[SpaceTiger]

what is a graph of a spectra called?

A "spectrum", usually.

 

[Chronos]

Also known as a spectrograph.

 

[SpaceTiger]

Also known as a spectrograph.

"Spectrograph" usually refers to the instrument used to take the spectrum.

 

[turbo]

And isn't the graphical readout a spectrogram? That's the common term for audio spectra.

 

[SpaceTiger]

And isn't the graphical readout a spectrogram? That's the common term for audio spectra.

I've never heard that term used in astronomy, so it's probably specific to audio spectra.

 

[turbo]

I've never heard that term used in astronomy, so it's probably specific to audio spectra.

Could be. Audio spectra are different in character, too, since they commonly have frequency on the vertical axis and time on the horizontal and vary the darkness of the plot to indicate magnitude. Some birding guides include them to characterize songs, and with a little practice, you can read them.

 

[Chronos]

Point noted - a tomato thing. I would have said spectroscope or spectrometer for the instrument.