Spectra Feature Summary

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Type:: From Physics Research
Title:: Spectra
Description:: This image (hi-res version) shows absorption lines in the sun's visible spectrum. To find out more, see Atomic Absorption and Emission Spectra.

Analysis of these lines determines the chemical composition of a star. For an explanation of why the lines of calcium--rather than hydrogen--dominate the solar spectrum, go to "Analysis of absorption Lines" in Spectra, from the University of Illinois (the other sections are interesting, too).
Image:: image credit: N.A.Sharp, NOAO/NSO/Kitt Peak FTS/AURA/NSF; image source.
Image URL:: http://www.compadre.org/Informal/images/features/solarabsoprtlineslarge-12-0.jpg
Featured:: January 1, 2007 - January 16, 2007